Uganda Strengthens Bus Safety with New Driver and Route Regulations

Uganda is implementing a comprehensive overhaul of regulations for public service and school buses, driven by recent fatal crashes that highlighted critical safety lapses. The Ministry of Works and Transport announced sweeping measures, including mandatory vehicle inspections, biometric driver identification, and stricter working-hour limits for drivers.

All existing route charts for public service buses have been recalled and will be reissued within one month after a thorough audit of ownership. Vehicles with unclear legal status will be barred from operating. Furthermore, every public service bus must undergo a full mechanical roadworthiness inspection at the Namanve Vehicle Inspection Centre to obtain a new route chart or operating license; non-compliant vehicles will be grounded until repaired and certified.

Driver control is also being tightened. Drivers will now receive annual badges based on their road discipline and compliance records, and must have completed a refresher course within the last two years. A new biometric system will link drivers to specific vehicles, preventing unauthorized individuals from operating buses. To combat driver fatigue, buses traveling over 450 kilometers will require at least two drivers, while routes over 300 kilometers will need operators to demonstrate sufficient driver capacity for two per bus. For shorter return trips (up to 300 km), drivers must have at least eight consecutive hours of rest.

The government is also cracking down on illegal bus terminals and roadside pick-up points, ordering their closure. All passenger operations must now occur at authorized terminals under official supervision. For school transport, strict controls remain in place. Schools need explicit clearance for special trips, and vehicles must meet rigorous safety standards, including functional seatbelts, first-aid kits, and emergency exits. Children are prohibited from traveling between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

A joint enforcement team comprising the Ministry of Works and Transport, Police, and local governments will oversee the implementation of these new measures, aimed at restoring order and enhancing safety on Ugandan roads.