The government is set to reinstate a mandatory periodic vehicle inspection programme, beginning with state-owned vehicles before expanding to passenger, goods, and eventually private vehicles. Preparations are already underway, with transport officers from various ministries and agencies undergoing training on the requirements of the exercise.
According to Winstone Katushabe, the Commissioner for Transport Regulations and Safety, the first phase has focused on sensitising stakeholders about the purpose of the inspections and how the programme will operate. Speaking during the launch at a Ministry inspection centre in Namanve, Wakiso District, Katushabe—who also serves as the government’s Chief Licensing Officer—stressed that the initiative is vital in tackling road carnage.
He noted that a significant number of accidents are linked to un-roadworthy vehicles, contributing to more than 4,000 deaths annually. “Losing over 4,000 lives a year is worrying, and several interventions are being conducted to reverse the trend, with mandatory vehicle inspection being one of the solutions,” he said.
To encourage compliance, Katushabe revealed that inspection fees had been significantly reduced, making it more affordable for motorists to maintain their vehicles in proper condition. He explained that the exercise is expected to save lives by ensuring that poorly maintained vehicles are identified and fixed before they become a danger on the road.
Eng. Kharim Kibuuka, the ministry’s Principal Inspector of Motor Vehicles, said the inspection process will involve three components: automated checks, visual assessments, and advisory notes. Automated tests will focus on the front and rear wheels, as well as the suspension system, to guarantee vehicle stability and safety.
The ministry has already outlined the fees for different categories of vehicles. Motorcycles will be charged Shs5,500, while cars and dual-purpose vehicles will pay Shs52,000. Passenger vehicles will be charged between Shs49,500 and Shs60,000 depending on seating capacity, while goods vehicles will pay between Shs48,000 and Shs60,000 depending on tonnage. Trailers will be charged Shs30,000 for two axles, with an additional Shs10,000 for each extra axle. Agricultural tractors will pay Shs10,000, and engineering plants weighing 3.5 tonnes will pay Shs48,000.
Officials say the phased roll-out will give stakeholders time to adjust, while ensuring that safety on Ugandan roads is improved for all road users.
