Boda boda riders in Kampala and Rubaga divisions have appealed to the government to reduce internet data charges and smartphone prices to enable them fully embrace digital transport systems.
The appeal was made during a digital training programme organised by the Uganda Communications Commission together with Outsourcing Impact and Simba Automotives under the Digital Onboarding and Empowerment of Boda Boda Riders campaign, popularly known as the “Beera Ku Digital” initiative.
The programme trained 573 boda boda riders in smartphone usage, transport applications, digital payments, and online safety.
Speaking during the training at Jasmon Gardens in Kampala, National Boda Boda Union Chairperson Frank Mawejje said many riders are willing to join digital platforms but are limited by the high cost of internet data and smartphones.
“The biggest challenge our riders face is the cost of internet data. Many of them rely on digital systems for deliveries and transport services, yet internet access remains expensive,” Mawejje said.
He urged the government to reduce taxes on internet services and ensure affordable, high-quality smartphones are available on the market.
“Many riders buy cheap smartphones that stop working after only a few weeks. Government and relevant agencies should ensure quality phones are sold at affordable prices,” he added.
Robert Kaggwa Mwiine, a trainer from Impact Outsourcing, said the campaign aims to help boda boda riders transition from analogue operations to modern digital business systems.
“We want riders to use apps for business, digital payments, and safety. The world is changing, and riders should not be left behind,” Mwiine said.
He explained that digital transport systems improve passenger security because riders can easily be identified and tracked through applications.
“When a passenger requests a rider through an app, it becomes easier to identify who transported them. Some applications also include emergency response features,” he said.
Some riders who attended the training said smartphones and digital applications are becoming essential tools for generating income.
Papius Atwiine said he had previously viewed smartphones as luxury items.
“I thought smartphones were only for showing off, but now I have learnt they can help us earn money,” he said.
Immaculate Nuwabiine said digital transport applications help riders secure customers more quickly and reduce conflicts over transport fares.
The “Beera Ku Digital” campaign is part of the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF), which aims to promote digital literacy and internet access in underserved communities across the country.
Riders received training in digital onboarding under the Beera Ku Digital initiative, digital financial literacy with Wendi and Pearl Bank, mobile money and digital payments, NIRA registration and national ID services, SACCO mobilisation and financial discipline, as well as health, safety, and hygiene practices.
The initiative, which started in Mukono, aims to directly reach 3,000 boda boda riders across the Kampala Metropolitan Area.
- According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, the boda boda industry employs more than 1.2 million Ugandans directly. However, only a small proportion currently operate on digital platforms. Stakeholders believe the initiative will significantly increase digital integration across the sector.
