KAMPALA – Watu Uganda, an asset financing company, on Thursday launched Watu Shule, a pioneering riding school in Kampala, to address the urgent need for road safety and professional motorcycle training. This groundbreaking institution is committed to providing accessible, high-quality motorcycle training, with a mission to enhance road safety and contribute to the development of skilled, responsible riders, especially within the bodaboda sector.
Watu Shule’s program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theoretical and hands-on training, covering essential areas such as motorcycle operation, traffic regulations, and safe riding practices. This holistic approach is designed to equip riders with the skills and knowledge to navigate Uganda’s roads responsibly, reducing the risks associated with motorcycle riding.
According to Christian Kamukama, Head of Commercial at Watu Uganda, the school aims to close the skills gap in the motorcycle sector, boost road safety, and support youth in securing sustainable livelihoods.
“We’re confident this initiative will empower many Ugandans, improve road safety, and drive economic growth,” Kamukama stated.
Michael Kamoga, Road Safety Officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, emphasized the importance of road safety, saying, “Road safety is a collective responsibility, and ours as a ministry is normally regulatory. We came up with the Traffic and Road Safety Amendment Act 2020, which stipulates that motorcycles can only carry one passenger, and both the rider and passenger must wear helmets to minimize risks in the event of an accident.”
Kamoga also highlighted the government’s efforts to reduce the cost of riding licenses, saying, “Motorcyclists have always complained that the riding licenses are highly charged, and the government has listened to them and reduced the cost of both new and renewal for the class of A, A1, and B1. So, there is no more excuse. Please utilize Watu Shule services and minimize road crashes.”
Michael Kananura, Traffic Police Spokesperson, also welcomed the partnership and is optimistic the initiative will improve road safety in Uganda.
“Motorcyclists are a significant concern for us when it comes to road safety. “Our statistics for 2023 indicate that we lost an average of five people daily who were either riders or passengers on motorcycles. This year, from January to June, we have recorded six fatalities per day. This is a staggering number, and it’s clear that boda bodas are a major contributor to road crashes in Uganda,” he said.
Kananura attributed the high number of fatalities to the lack of training facilities for motorcycle riders. “As a country, we have struggled to provide adequate training for these riders. Therefore, we are grateful to Watu Shule for this innovative solution.”
The Traffic Police Spokesperson expressed confidence that the training program would yield positive results. “We are certain that once these boda boda riders undergo training, they will become disciplined road users, riding with confidence and adhering to traffic rules. Currently, many of them ride recklessly, especially when they spot a traffic officer, because they lack licenses, which puts their lives and those of their passengers at risk.”
One of Watu Shule’s key differentiators is its structured program, which emphasizes safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance. The school not only equips riders with essential knowledge and skills but also supports them throughout the licensing process, ensuring a seamless transition into their careers as qualified riders.
The launch of Watu Shule in Kampala is part of a larger initiative by Watu Uganda to expand motorcycle training schools across the country, with a vision of establishing Watu Shule as Uganda’s leading motorcycle riding school and setting new standards for quality and safety in the industry.
Bodabodas play a significant role in Uganda’s transport network, connecting communities to essential services, and supporting local industries. However, the sector faces challenges related to safety and regulatory compliance, with high upfront costs for training keeping many riders from obtaining essential permits.
Watu Shule aims to bridge this gap by offering structured training and assisting new riders in obtaining necessary licenses, promoting safer practices throughout the sector. As noted by Lawrence Niwabiine, Director Traffic, Road and Safety, “This school will strengthen road safety in Kampala by providing quality motorcycle training and critical skills for safe and responsible riding.”
