An academic investigation into the causes of crime in the Bugisu region has linked the issue to high loan rates incurred by boda boda riders who acquire motorcycles through exorbitant mortgage schemes.
According to Stevenmasiga, the principal investigator and coordinator of the Makerere University Mbale Branch, the study, titled “Crime on the Road,” revealed that 99% of boda boda riders who acquire motorcycles through mortgage schemes struggle to repay their debts. This financial pressure, according to the study, drives many riders towards criminal activities to meet their loan obligations.
The study found that while the market price of a motorcycle ranges from five to six million shillings, mortgage schemes inflate the cost to over 10 million shillings. Over 75% of the 150 respondents interviewed reported struggling to make weekly payments of around 100,000 shillings for over a year.
Approximately 50% of respondents within this group admitted to considering or engaging in unlawful activities to meet their loan obligations. Common crimes cited in the study include petty theft, particularly around the Christmas season.
A concerning 30% of respondents indicated they had no qualms about transporting individuals involved in criminal activities, as long as they were adequately compensated. However, 25% of respondents expressed reservations about transporting customers they suspected of involvement in serious crimes.
The study highlights the successful intervention of the Speaker of Parliament in the Teso region, where she reportedly negotiated with motorcycle sellers to secure more affordable prices for boda boda riders. The study recommends that a similar model could be implemented in the Bugisu region.
Key recommendations from the study include:
- Government Intervention: The government should engage with motorcycle selling companies to ensure more affordable loan rates for riders.
- Community Policing: The Uganda Police should utilize community policing strategies, such as those advocated by Sir Robert Peel 150 years ago, to combat crime effectively.
- Diversification of Income: Boda boda riders should be encouraged to participate in government programs like PDM, Emyooga, and agriculture to diversify their income sources.
The study was conducted by Stevenmasiga, the principal investigator, and co-lecturers at the Center for Management, where he serves as the coordinator at the Makerere University Mbale Branch.
