The Ugandan government has announced plans to commence the rollout of digital number plates beginning November 1, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transportation and security infrastructure.
Security Minister (Rtd) Maj Gen Jim Muhwezi confirmed that preparations are underway, with a production line established in Kampala to meet the domestic demand for over 2.2 million vehicles across various categories.
Timeline and Implementation
Initially, the digital number plates will be introduced for new motorcycles, with a comprehensive rollout for all vehicle types scheduled to commence on January 6, 2025. This phased approach aims to streamline the integration process and ensure effective deployment of the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS).
Minister Muhwezi outlined that the transition from traditional to digital plates will occur over a two-year period, emphasizing the government’s commitment to modernizing vehicle registration and monitoring systems.
Challenges and Delays
Originally slated for implementation on March 1, 2024, logistical challenges and external factors, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, prompted delays. These setbacks necessitated rescheduling to July 1, and subsequently to November 1, 2024.
The Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) also petitioned Parliament, advocating for a phased rollout beginning with government vehicles due to concerns over public awareness and readiness.
Vehicle Registration and Security Concerns
As of July 3, 2024, Uganda has registered approximately 2.15 million motor vehicles, a significant increase posing challenges such as vehicle-related crimes, traffic accidents, and administrative inefficiencies.
Minister Muhwezi underscored the ITMS’s role in addressing these issues, enhancing security measures, and improving administrative efficiency through real-time vehicle tracking capabilities.
Technological Infrastructure and Partnerships
Winstone Katushabe, Commissioner of Transport Regulation and Safety at the Ministry of Works and Transport, affirmed that Uganda’s infrastructure supports the ITMS requirements. He assured that privacy concerns have been addressed in compliance with national data protection laws.
The implementation of the ITMS involves integrating digital number plates with existing systems, including CCTV, motor vehicle registration databases, and revenue collection mechanisms like the e-tax system.
Production and Logistics
To support local production capabilities, a facility equipped with advanced stamping and embossment machines has been established in Kawempe. This facility is crucial for ensuring the timely supply of digital plates and components.
Minister Muhwezi reported progress in fitting digital plates on government vehicles, with ongoing efforts to overcome logistical challenges associated with importing plate components.
Fees and Revenue Generation
The government has finalized fee structures for new registrations and replacements, aimed at recovering costs associated with the digital number plate initiative. Fees range from sh50,000 for motorcycles to sh714,000 for first-time vehicle registrations.
Future Outlook and Objectives
Minister Muhwezi outlined the overarching goals of the ITMS, including enhancing vehicle identification in criminal activities, improving traffic management, and boosting revenue collection through enforced traffic regulations.
The digital number plates will feature advanced security features such as aluminum plates, trackers, SIM chips, Bluetooth beacons, and snap locks, enabling comprehensive vehicle monitoring and swift response capabilities for law enforcement.
