Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has made a bold move by terminating operations at 248 commercial motorcycles (bodaboda) stages in preparation for the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+ China summits. The decision aims to facilitate secure and efficient transportation during the international events.
Daniel Muhumuza, the KCCA Spokesperson, highlighted that the most substantial impact will be felt by bodaboda riders in Makindye and Central divisions. To ensure unimpeded movement during the summits, specific roads have been restricted in Makindye, including Lukuli, Mobutu, Gaba, Prince Badru, Kakungulu, and others. Similarly, Central division has implemented restrictions on roads such as Nile, Avenue, Parliamentary Avenue, George Street, Kafu, Ssezibwa, and Yusuf Lule.
While bodaboda riders are permitted to use these restricted roads, they are strictly prohibited from parking on them. Even after the conclusion of the NAM and G77+ China summits, KCCA plans to retain only 425 bodaboda stages out of the existing 51,893. The allocation will be distributed among different divisions, with Kampala Central having 60, Kawempe 76, Nakawa 102, Lubaga 90, and Makindye 97 stages.
In an effort to ensure a clean and safe city environment during the summits, KCCA has undertaken initiatives such as removing 259 children from the streets and relocating them to the Masuulita Children Centre for rehabilitation. Additionally, 15 individuals allegedly supporting street beggars have been arrested and will face legal proceedings.
To address potential emergencies, the fire directorate’s operations officer, Godfrey Okobo, confirmed that 150 firefighters are ready to respond to incidents like fire outbreaks and road crashes. An emergency command center has been established at the Fire Directorate headquarters at Clock Tower.
The Police Spokesperson, Fred Enanga, stated that over 4,000 delegates are expected to attend the summits. Security measures include joint covert and overt security teams to counter criminal activities, including terrorism. A comprehensive security command center has been established at the National Closed Circuit Commander Centre at Naguru.
Enanga emphasized that preparations have been in place for an extended period, with a robust plan to secure delegates from their arrival at the airport to their hotels and conference centers. The security apparatus includes air drones and other space surveillance mechanisms. Authorities have urged Ugandans to cooperate with security agencies to ensure the safety of everyone during the events.
