Uganda began issuing digital registration plates for private and public motor vehicles on Monday, 6th January, marking the third phase of the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) project.
Why it matters
- The new plates aim to curb vehicle-related crimes and reduce road accidents.
- The tracking system will help authorities trace vehicles flagged for traffic offenses or criminal activities.
Context
- Phase 1: In November 2023, digital plates were introduced for government vehicles.
- Phase 2: In November 2024, motorcycles and tricycles adopted the new plates.
- Phase 3: Private and public motor vehicles will now transition.
Details
- Vehicle owners must pay 713,000 Shillings for new registrations, 150,000 Shillings to switch old plates, and 50,000 Shillings for motorcycles.
- Orders placed with previous providers (GM Tumpeco and ABC Ltd) will be fulfilled until January 5, 2025. Afterward, Joint Stock Company Global Security (JSCGS) will take over.
- A 30-day grace period starting January 6, 2025, allows owners to collect plates from the old providers.
The big picture
The ITMS project, launched by the Ministry of Security and the Ministry of Works and Transport, addresses privacy concerns and cost issues while pushing for safer roads and enhanced crime prevention.
What’s next
After the grace period, vehicle owners must reapply for duplicate plates under the updated Traffic and Road Safety (Registration Plates) Regulations 2022.
Source: The Independent
