The nationwide bus inspection exercise aimed at improving road safety and reducing accidents involving passenger vehicles kicks off on Monday,April 13,2026.
According to ministry spokesperson Allan Ssempebwa, the inspections will initially target buses operating along the Northern and Eastern routes, with operators already notified.
Speaking during a visit to the Namanve vehicle inspection facility, Ssempebwa said the exercise will ensure that all passenger service vehicles meet required safety standards before returning to the road.
Engineers will assess key components including brakes, lights, suspension, tyres, and overall vehicle condition. Buses found to be defective will be barred from operation until repairs are completed.
“Vehicles that pass inspection will be issued with a compliance sticker,” Ssempebwa said, noting that the measure is intended to enhance accountability and safeguard passengers.
Under the new regulations, all vehicles must undergo inspection twice a year, with bus owners required to pay Shs 60,000 per inspection. Authorities warned that vehicles operating without valid inspection certificates will be impounded and owners prosecuted.
The Minister of State for Transport, Fred Byamukama, recently met members of the Uganda Bus Operators Association and emphasized the need for strict compliance with inspection requirements.
The government has since resumed direct control of vehicle inspections after ending its partnership with SGS, which previously managed the process and established inspection centres in areas including Namanve, Kawanda, Nabbingo, Namulanda, Mbale, Gulu, and Mbarara.