United Bus Drivers Association (UBDA), representing professional bus drivers in Uganda, has formally informed various stakeholders, including the Uganda Bus Owners Association (UBOA), Ministry of Works and Transport, Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, and general public, of a resolution concerning ongoing challenges surrounding driver badges and associated regulatory requirements.
Background and Concern
UBDA acknowledges the government’s responsibility to regulate public passenger transport and promote road safety. The Association remains committed to professional conduct, passenger safety, and compliance with lawful requirements. However, UBDA is deeply concerned about the increasing financial and administrative pressure on professional bus drivers regarding the validity and renewal of driver badges. This includes the associated refresher-training requirements and costs.
The Association has repeatedly raised concerns that the current arrangement places a significant financial burden on drivers whose salaries do not adequately support recurring annual costs. UBDA believes that road-safety training should be strengthened but also made practical, affordable, and designed in consultation with professional drivers who operate Uganda’s roads every day.
Resolution of the Association
After consultation among members, UBDA has resolved that, effective Monday, 12 October 2026, members of the Association will temporarily withdraw their driving services and park the buses they operate as a collective form of peaceful industrial action until the Association’s concerns receive meaningful engagement and resolution.
This decision is communicated formally in advance to allow bus owners, government authorities, passengers, and the wider public to prepare accordingly.
