The Uganda Transport Operators Federation (UTOF) has warned taxi operators against evading Operation Ganyegenya, an enforcement exercise targeting commuter taxis in dangerous mechanical condition.
Mustafa Mayambala, UTOF Vice Chairperson in charge of Administration, said some taxi operators were avoiding daytime inspections by parking their vehicles and resuming operations at night in an attempt to escape enforcement officers.
However, Mayambala warned that the tactic would not work because enforcement teams conduct inspections both during the day and at night.
“Many taxi drivers have failed to put this into action because they have failed to take their taxis for repair. Instead, they park them during the day and drive them at night. What they do not know is that this operation works during the day and at night,” Mayambala said.
Operation Ganyegenya was launched by the Ministry of Works and Transport in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). The 100-day enforcement exercise aims to identify and remove unroadworthy commuter taxis from the roads to improve road safety and protect passengers and other road users.
Mayambala urged taxi operators to take their vehicles for mechanical inspection and repair any identified defects before resuming operations.
He cautioned drivers against waiting until their vehicles are intercepted by enforcement officers, saying preventive maintenance would save them money and minimise disruptions to their businesses.
“Repairing a taxi is not costly compared to when it is taken to the police, where it will be expensive for you to get it back. So, let us do the needful,” he added.
The operation targets commuter taxis with dangerous mechanical defects that could endanger passengers, drivers and other road users.
The enforcement campaign comes amid persistent concerns about road safety and the risks associated with public transport vehicles operating with faulty mechanical systems.
Taxi operators have therefore been urged to prioritise regular vehicle maintenance and comply with the required safety standards as authorities continue implementing the 100-day operation.