Unsafe Taxis Phased Out as Government Enforces DMC Ban

Kampala, Uganda – March 21, 2026

In a bold step to enhance road safety, the government has ordered the immediate removal of Dangerous Mechanically Conditioned (DMC) taxis from Ugandan roads, targeting vehicles deemed unfit for public transport.

The ban, announced by the Ministry of Works and Transport, is part of a nationwide enforcement campaign aimed at eliminating unsafe vehicles and reducing road traffic accidents.

The directive is already being implemented in Kampala, where authorities say a large number of taxis operate in poor mechanical condition.

DMC taxis are typically identified by critical defects including malfunctioning brakes, loose or missing doors, worn tyres, damaged interiors, and overall structural weakness.

Officials warn that such vehicles not only endanger passengers but also contribute significantly to road crashes.

Enforcement teams led by the Uganda Police Force have begun mounting operations across the city, stopping suspected vehicles and impounding those that fail to meet safety standards.

Drivers and owners found in violation face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and possible deregistration.

Government says the crackdown follows growing concern over the increasing number of accidents linked to mechanical failure, many involving public service vehicles that have not undergone regular inspection.

“We are prioritizing the safety of Ugandans. Vehicles on the road must meet minimum safety standards without exception,” a government official involved in the operation said.

The directive also reinforces ongoing plans to reintroduce strict vehicle inspection regimes for all public and commercial transport operators.

Authorities have indicated that compliance checks will soon be expanded beyond taxis to include buses and private hire vehicles.

However, the move has sparked mixed reactions within the transport sector.

While commuters have welcomed the decision as a necessary safety measure, some taxi operators argue that the sudden enforcement could disrupt livelihoods and reduce the number of available vehicles.

Despite the concerns, government insists the crackdown is non-negotiable, emphasizing that road safety must take precedence over all other considerations.

The ban signals a tougher stance on transport regulation, as Uganda moves to eliminate hazardous vehicles and improve the overall quality of its public transport system.