Traffic Police Back More Women Boda Riders as Uganda Battles Rising Road Deaths

By Skika Reporter.

Traffic police are advocating for a greater presence of women in Kampala’s boda boda industry, arguing that female riders could play a crucial role in reducing the country’s growing number of road crashes and fatalities.

The call comes as Uganda continues to grapple with increasing road carnage, with police statistics showing that more than 5,300 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2025. Authorities believe that encouraging more women to join the commercial motorcycle transport sector could help reverse the trend.

Speaking during a meeting with the Kampala Twezimbe Women Boda Boda Riders Association, Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety spokesperson SP Michael Kananura said women have consistently demonstrated safer road behavior compared to their male counterparts.

“Women are among the most disciplined road users. Records show that they are rarely involved in reckless driving and are less likely to be registered as traffic offenders. If we have more women in the boda boda industry, traffic crashes are likely to reduce significantly,” SP Kananura said.

Police data indicates that male riders account for the overwhelming majority of road traffic deaths, often linked to speeding, dangerous overtaking, and other risky practices.

The campaign to increase female participation in the sector is also aimed at improving professionalism and public confidence in the boda boda business. According to industry figures, only 104 registered female riders currently operate within the Kampala Metropolitan Area, compared to an estimated 90,000 male riders.

NRM Women’s League Chairperson Adrine Kobusingye said women riders possess a unique advantage because many customers view them as more trustworthy and reliable service providers.

“If women organize themselves, build strong brands, and offer professional services, they can attract more customers and expand their presence in the industry. Many people feel more comfortable entrusting deliveries to female riders,” she said.

Beyond road safety, officials see the initiative as part of broader efforts to empower women economically and break barriers in traditionally male-dominated occupations. Kobusingye noted that more women are entering fields previously considered off-limits, including construction, plumbing, and electrical work.

The female riders’ association says its mission goes beyond transport services. Chairperson Dativah Mukeshimana said the group is working to challenge stereotypes and promote a new image of women as capable entrepreneurs and responsible road users.

“We want society to recognize that women can succeed in any profession. These riders are professional, safe, and committed to serving their communities,” Mukeshimana said.

As part of the initiative, members received training in road safety, defensive riding, customer care, and mental health awareness. Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport also briefed them on the planned reintroduction of the Express Penalty Scheme (EPS), which is expected to strengthen enforcement against traffic offenders.

Authorities hope that combining stricter enforcement with increased female participation in the transport sector will help make Uganda’s roads safer while creating new economic opportunities for women.