Manufacturers decry digital number plate monopoly, cite delays and high costs

The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) is calling on Parliament to scrutinize a 10-year agreement that grants a Russian-based firm, Joint Stock Company Global Security, a monopoly on producing digital number plates in Uganda. UMA argues that this exclusive deal, signed in 2021, has not delivered the anticipated security improvements and is instead causing considerable problems.

During a meeting with the Committee on Physical Infrastructure, UMA Board Chairperson Richard Mubiru stated that the promised advancements in tackling falsified number plates have not materialized. He also noted that the monopoly has sidelined local companies that previously manufactured number plates, impacting their operations.

Stakeholders shared accounts of prolonged delays in receiving and installing the digital plates. One boda boda rider reported paying for a plate in July 2025 and still awaiting delivery, facing additional assessment requests. Representatives from the National Boda Boda Union questioned the effectiveness of the digital plates in recovering stolen motorcycles, suggesting that cameras are more instrumental. They also protested the substantial increase in plate fees, arguing that motorcycle operators should not bear the same costs as car owners.

Further issues raised included the company’s unresponsiveness to clients and difficulties in tracking vehicles and motorcycles. The committee chairperson highlighted that the high cost of the digital plates, approximately Shs700,000, is under examination to determine if the security features justify the expense. Concerns about the contractor’s capacity to meet demand were also voiced, given the widespread complaints about delays.

The project manager for the contractor acknowledged government concerns over scarcity and delays, attributing some issues to disruptions caused by international conflicts affecting consignments. He asserted the company possesses the technical capability and staffing to handle installations but noted that actual output has fallen short of the stated daily capacity.

The parliamentary committee is continuing its inquiry into the digital number plate system’s security features, effectiveness, and the contractor’s capacity, with a report to Parliament expected soon.

Source: Howwe Entertainment