United Bodaboda Union to Roll Out Division-Based Uniforms for Riders in Kampala

An exclusive UgandaToday Q&A with Chairman John Mawejje

Kampala’s bodaboda sector—one of the city’s largest informal employers—is set for a significant transformation. In an exclusive interview with UgandaToday, Mr. John Mawejje, Chairman of the United Bodaboda Union, revealed plans to introduce standardized uniforms for riders beginning with the five divisions of Kampala.

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with security agencies, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and various bodaboda administrative bodies across Uganda, aims to improve order, safety, and accountability within the sector.

Below is the interview conducted by UgandaToday.

Q&A: UgandaToday in Conversation with John Mawejje

UgandaToday: Mr. Mawejje, what inspired the United Bodaboda Union to introduce uniforms for riders?

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John Mawejje:
The bodaboda industry has grown tremendously and now employs thousands of Ugandans, especially in urban centers like Kampala. However, the rapid expansion has also brought challenges—ranging from crime to lack of regulation. The introduction of uniforms is part of our strategy to professionalize the sector. By ensuring riders are easily identifiable, we improve trust between riders and the public while also supporting security efforts.

UgandaToday: How will the uniform system work, particularly in Kampala’s divisions?

John Mawejje: We are starting with the five divisions of Kampala—Central, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, and Lubaga. Each division will have a unique uniform color or design so that riders operating in those areas can easily be identified. This system will help both passengers and authorities know where a rider belongs and will simplify monitoring and administration.

UgandaToday: Who is partnering with the Union to implement this initiative?

John Mawejje: We are working closely with security agencies, the Kampala Capital City Authority, and different bodaboda leadership structures across the country. The goal is to ensure the rollout is coordinated and that the uniforms are recognized as official identifiers for legitimate riders.

UgandaToday: Beyond identification, how will this initiative help address concerns about reckless riding, crime, and congestion in the city?

John Mawejje: Uniforms are only one part of a broader reform. Once riders are registered and identified through uniforms, it becomes easier to enforce discipline and accountability. Riders who engage in reckless behavior, criminal activities, or violate traffic regulations can quickly be identified and sanctioned.

This will discourage individuals who use motorcycles for crimes like phone snatching or robberies. It will also help authorities manage traffic better because riders will be registered under specific stages and divisions. Ultimately, the system will reduce chaos on the roads and improve safety for both riders and passengers.

UgandaToday: How are riders responding to this proposed change?

John Mawejje: Many riders welcome the idea because it brings dignity and structure to the profession. Bodaboda riding is a legitimate livelihood for many Ugandans. With uniforms and proper organization, riders will be treated more like professionals rather than informal operators.

UgandaToday: When should Kampala residents expect the rollout to begin?

John Mawejje: We are currently finalizing coordination with stakeholders and preparing the distribution framework. The rollout will begin in the five divisions of Kampala before expanding to other cities and districts across the country.

UgandaToday: What message do you have for bodaboda riders and the public?

John Mawejje: To the riders, I encourage them to embrace this change because it will strengthen the sector and protect their jobs. To the public, we ask for cooperation and support as we work to make the bodaboda industry safer, more reliable, and more organized.

A Step Towards Professionalizing Uganda’s Bodaboda Industry

The bodaboda sector remains one of Uganda’s most dynamic employment engines. Yet its rapid growth has also created regulatory challenges for authorities and safety concerns for passengers.

By introducing division-based uniforms and working with authorities, the United Bodaboda Union hopes to usher in a new era of accountability and professionalism—starting in Kampala before spreading nationwide.

If successfully implemented, the initiative could significantly reshape how one of Uganda’s most visible transport sectors operates in the years ahead.

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