Regulation of Boda Boda Operators and Road Accident Reduction in Uganda: A Case of Kampala City Council Authority

Abstract

Motorcycle transport commonly referred to as Boda Boda is a popular means of transport in Uganda. It is cheap compared to the
other forms of motorized transport, easy to maneuver where roads are impassable to motor vehicles, and carries passengers from doorto-door because the culture of walking is not typical to many Ugandans. Despite benefits offered by boda boda transport, it has proved difficult for the government to regulate the industry. There is some operational discipline provided by the associations to which majority of boda boda operators belong though most of them have only a local jurisdiction. Lack of clear regulations in the boda boda industry as well as weak enforcement of these regulations is threatening the safety of passengers and riders as well. Despite several attempts to streamline the industry, the exercise has not been successful, making
boda boda account for a significant number of fatal road accidents across the country. The purpose of the study was to investigate theregulation of boda boda operations in Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) and its impact on road accident reduction. A quantitative research approach and cross-sectional survey were adopted. Data were collected using a self- administered questionnaire. Implications for both theory and practice are discussed, especially suggestions for government in formulation of policies and regulations that govern boda boda operations.