Summary:
- In June 2017, then-Minister for Kampala Betty Kamya issued a ban on the operation of Tuk-Tuks in the city. However, this order was swiftly overruled by President Museveni, who demonstrated his support by ceremonially riding in a Tuk-Tuk and declaring them free to ferry passengers in the city.
KABALE: Kabale Municipality is on the verge of losing millions in taxes due to the unregulated operations of Tuk-Tuk drivers, who have become the dominant mode of transport in Kabale town.
These operators have now emerged as the leading income earners in the area, overtaking traditional pick-up and lorry drivers. Tuk-Tuks are frequently seen transporting a variety of items, including bedding, food, charcoal, and chairs among others in Kabale town.
Currently, Tuk-Tuks offer a wide range of transportation services across the town, causing concern among pick-up and lorry drivers who fear being pushed out of business. Tuk-Tuk operators allegedly charge significantly less than their counterparts, with rates as low as 10,000 shillings compared to the 30,000 shillings typically charged by pick-up and lorry drivers.
John Rukundo, the chairman of the pick-up and lorry drivers, expressed his concerns, noting the severe impact on their business since Tuk-Tuks entered the market. He highlighted that Tuk-Tuks are performing the same tasks at a fraction of the cost.
Sam Arinaitwe, the chairman of the central division of Kabale Municipality, emphasized the need for the municipal council to implement a loading and offloading tax for Tuk-Tuks. Arinaitwe warned that the increase in Tuk-Tuk operations without regulation would significantly affect taxi revenue in the area.
CUE IN ARINAITWE….ON REGULATION….RR/ENG//
In June 2017, then-Minister for Kampala Betty Kamya issued a ban on the operation of Tuk-Tuks in the city. However, this order was swiftly overruled by President Museveni, who demonstrated his support by ceremonially riding in a Tuk-Tuk and declaring them free to ferry passengers in the city.
