AINEMBABAZI V
Boda boda riders in Rukungiri District have been encouraged to adopt digital number plates as a security measure to help law enforcement agencies track stolen motorcycles and curb criminal activities.
Julius Kahigyiriza, Vice Chairperson of the Rukungiri Boda Boda Stage, urged riders to embrace digital number plates, emphasizing their importance in preventing theft. He advised those who have not yet acquired them to do so, stating that the cost of fifty thousand shillings is minimal compared to the value of their motorcycles.
Speaking to our reporter, Ambrose Akampa, Chairman of the Boda Boda Rwenshama Stage, noted that while digital number plates are beneficial, the government should implement the initiative gradually. He suggested that all riders should be required to have them to ensure fairness and effectiveness.
He further emphasized that the system is part of the country’s strategy to reduce crime by tracking vehicles, acknowledging its importance but urging authorities to streamline the process for better efficiency.
However, Tanasi Ankankwasa, a boda boda rider, expressed concerns over the effectiveness of the system. He pointed out that criminals are often technologically skilled and might still find ways to manipulate or misuse the digital number plates. Additionally, he mentioned that the cost of tracking services is high, especially for riders who are still paying off loans on their motorcycles.
Denis Turyamureeba, a rider at Ntungamo Stage who has already adopted a digital number plate, highlighted the benefits of the system. He noted that digital plates make it easier to track motorcycles in case of theft and encouraged fellow riders to embrace them for their own safety
