Faras Uganda, a leading ride-hailing services provider, has taken proactive steps to ensure the safety of its boda boda (motorcycle taxi) riders and the general public this festive season by launching a new line of high-quality reflector jackets and rearguards.
The initiative was unveiled during the company’s annual end-of-year celebration, which centered on the theme of “Safety and Smartness in the Festival Season,” highlighting the corporate commitment to minimizing road accidents during a period often associated with high-risk driving and increased traffic congestion.
Kasaija Mudhafar Hamad, General Manager of Faras Uganda, emphasized the importance of visibility in the company’s operations. Commenting on the new reflective gear, he added, “If you are riding in the night, or during the day, it is safer because other road users will be able to clearly see you.”
Adding: “Faras is doing this because it understands that safety is important not only for you our captains but every road user. That is why we want you to be smartly distinquishable and protected.”
Police and Experts Endorse High-Quality Gear
The event drew high praise from road safety advocates and law enforcement, who acknowledged Faras’s significant investment in accident prevention.
Adonia Manyire, the OC Traffic Wandegeya Police Station, commended the company’s efforts, noting that the reflective gear meets stringent standards.
“Faras has invested a lot of money in this program. These are high quality and high standard visible reflectors,” Manyire said. “I am happy with Faras for bringing these reflectors. They will help in reducing accidents. Fellow riders cannot knock you because they will be seeing you.”
He also assured riders that traffic police were aligning their own safety measures, stating, “Just like Faras has given you new reflectors, I have also given my police officers new reflectors. We don’t want you to commit traffic offenses.”
Emmanuel Okiria of the Legacy Road Safety Initiative described Faras as a “model transport company” for setting a high standard in rider welfare and road safety compliance.
Warnings Against Festive Season Risks
Beyond providing equipment, Faras management used the platform to sensitize riders about the unique challenges of the holiday period, including rising theft and increased drunk driving incidents.
Abdul Razak, Driver Relations Manager at Faras Uganda, strongly encouraged the boda boda captains to internalize the safety message and share it with their colleagues network.
“There are many thieves and robbers who want your motorcycles. The road accidents are many. People are going to be taking alcohol and getting drunk,” Mukisa cautioned. “I want to thank Faras management for giving you these reflective jackets. We should be very careful during this period. Take care of your bikes, phones, and lives.”
Recognizing Excellence and Growth
The safety launch was coupled with the company’s annual awards ceremony, which recognized the top performers within its extensive rider network.
The event, which saw partners like Tugende attend, also underscored Faras’s rapid expansion in the market. Duncan Zimba of Tugende noted that Faras is “growing at a very fast speed.”
Katende Karim, Marketing Manager for Faras, reiterated the company’s long-term vision: “We work with people who desire to see the business of boda boda grow that is why we have brought on board credible partners who are enabling to operate and grow your businesess.”
“Faras is raising the bar in the boda boda industry. We want our riders to look professional, ride responsibly, and give customers the best experience. Safety gear is a key part of that journey.”
For the third consecutive year, the highlight of the evening was the presentation of a brand-new motorcycle to the “Best Captain” (rider). This year, Nsereko Karim emerged as the winner, securing the prestigious award for his consistent “hard work, discipline, and excellent service,” according to Faras management.
