KAMPALA, Uganda — The Government of Uganda has installed more than 290,000 digital number plates on vehicles and motorcycles, marking a major milestone in efforts to strengthen transport security under the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS).
Appearing before Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure, Winstone Katushabe, Commissioner of Transport Regulation and Safety, revealed that 218,781 motorcycles and 71,472 motor vehicles have so far been fitted with the plates.
The announcement comes amid growing public scrutiny, with some leaders questioning the authenticity of the project. Maurice Henry Kibalya recently described the initiative as a hoax, prompting a firm response from the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Katushabe dismissed the claims, insisting the project is fully operational despite minor challenges.
“This is a government program. There could be some challenges, but it is not a hoax,” he told the committee.
Officials acknowledged that the rollout has faced logistical setbacks, particularly in the transportation of key components and global supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions, including the Iran–Israel conflict. However, the ministry says stock availability has improved and installation is continuing.
Launched in 2022, the ITMS is a 10-year initiative aimed at curbing vehicle-related crime. The digital plates are embedded with advanced security features such as RFID tracking chips, QR codes, and tamper-detection technology, allowing real-time monitoring through integration with the police command centre.
Concerns have also been raised about theft of the plates, but Katushabe assured the public that the system can detect and track stolen plates. He urged motorists to report any incidents immediately to enable prompt action.
The rollout has been implemented in phases, starting with government vehicles in 2023, extending to motorcycles in November 2024, and becoming mandatory for all new private vehicle registrations from January 6, 2025.
Motorists currently pay Shs714,300 for new digital plates and Shs150,000 for replacements, costs the government says reflect the enhanced security features.
Despite challenges and skepticism, the government maintains that the project is a critical step toward modernizing Uganda’s transport system and improving national security.
