The claim that the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOF) is planning to replace taxis with buses has been officially denied—yet many are wondering why such rumors persist. But here's where it gets controversial: are these false rumors simply misunderstandings, or is there a deeper motive behind spreading such misinformation? Let's explore what's true and what's not.
Rashid Sekindi, who serves as the chairman of UTOF, clarified during a press conference at their headquarters in Kampala that reports suggesting a shift from passenger taxis to buses are completely unfounded. He described these claims as "groundless, misleading, and deliberately intended to stir unnecessary worry" among both drivers and the general public.
Sekindi pointed out that the individuals responsible for spreading these falsehoods are reportedly taxi drivers without valid passports. This is significant because the Dubai benchmarking trip, organized by UTOF in partnership with Spiro, is open only to drivers who have valid travel documents. The federation has been actively registering drivers with valid passports to prepare them for this educational and capacity-building journey.
"It's entirely false to say that UTOF is taking taxi drivers to Dubai with the purpose of negotiating the import or replacement of buses," Sekindi emphasized. "This trip is strictly for learning purposes. Our goal is to give drivers an opportunity to observe how transportation systems are managed internationally and to pick up best practices. Those spreading rumors are mostly individuals who do not have passports, even though the trip was accessible to everyone who qualified."
He further explained that the visit to Dubai, scheduled from January 8th to 12th, 2026—just before Uganda’s general elections—is aimed exclusively at empowering local drivers with knowledge and experience, not at replacing them or transforming the entire public transit landscape.
"This trip is purely educational. We are not in the business of buying buses or dismantling existing transport systems. Our focus is on enriching our drivers' skills and understanding of global practices," Sekindi reiterated. Additionally, he pointed out that the buses currently operating throughout Uganda were not introduced or organized by UTOF, which further undermines claims suggesting that the federation has an agenda to overhaul the country's entire public transportation framework.
In a related note, Faizo Lule Sebirumbi, who chairs the Namayiba Taxi Park, urged drivers to remain cautious as the festive season approaches. He highlighted the increasing risks associated with unlicensed drivers and those under the influence of alcohol.
"We advise all drivers to be extra vigilant. Some on the roads today are without valid licenses, and others are driving while intoxicated," Sebirumbi remarked. "Make sure to carry all necessary permits. We also want to reassure the public that taxi fares have not been increased during this period."
Finally, he encouraged passengers to plan their journeys early to avoid unnecessary delays and traffic congestion. These safety and convenience tips come at a crucial time when road safety concerns tend to rise during festive seasons.
So, what do you think? Are these rumors just a misunderstanding, or could there be more underlying motives? Do you believe that such trips to observe global practices could lead to real changes in Uganda's transportation system? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments—this debate is far from over.
