The Ugandan government has announced that the rollout of digital number plates for all vehicles in the country is almost underway. The initiative, which was launched on November 1, 2023, has already seen over 1,000 government vehicles equipped with the new intelligent plates.
The mass registration or installation of digital number plates is set to commence in November 2024, starting with motorcycles and other vehicles. Security Minister Retired Maj Gen. Jim Muhwezi revealed that there are over 2.1 million vehicles in Uganda. Registration for private vehicles will begin in January 2025 as the supplier constructs a factory in the country.
The digital number plates are part of the government’s strategy to enhance security and road safety. The new plates will aid in tracking criminals and reducing reckless driving on roads. By the end of 2025, all vehicles in Uganda are expected to be equipped with digital number plates.
Concerns and challenges
Despite initial resistance due to high fees for installation and replacement, the government has pushed forward with the project. The cost of the plates will remain unchanged, and the ministry is committed to ensuring that the digital number plate system effectively enhances security and road safety without compromising citizens’ privacy.
As of June 26, 2024, a total of 1,091 vehicles from various ministries had been fitted with the new registration plates. However, the process has faced persistent logistical challenges, which are slowly being resolved.
The government has set up a facility at Kawempe for the local production of registration plates and has installed four hot stamping machines and four embossing machines.
The government has also announced that all the hurdles blocking the installation of digital number plates in vehicles have been resolved. By November 2024, all new motorcycles will be equipped with digital number plates, and from January 6, 2025, all vehicles will be equipped with the new plates.
Transport and Roads Minister Gen Edward Katumba Wamala emphasized that the digital plates scheme will help fight crime committed using vehicles and address traffic violations.
