Car dealers decry delays, high costs in digital number plate rollout
Dealers are now urging the government to address the project’s inefficiencies, calling for a system that is more transparent, affordable, and effective in improving vehicle identification.
Ugandan car dealers are growing increasingly frustrated as the country’s digital number plate project faces mounting challenges.
Delays, supply shortages, security concerns, and high costs have cast doubt on the effectiveness of the initiative, which was meant to modernize vehicle identification.
Dealers cite major setbacks in the system’s implementation, with some experiencing delays of up to five days just to get number plates fitted. “The process is bogged down by payment reconciliation problems, and even after that, obtaining logbooks is another hurdle,” a Kampala-based dealer told this website.
Stock shortages have only worsened the situation, with suppliers struggling to meet demand. “We’re constantly running out,” another dealer lamented. “The provider simply can’t keep up.”
Manpower issues and a lack of proper training have further compounded frustrations. Despite promises to set up permanent fitment centers at nine bonded warehouses, these have yet to materialize. Meanwhile, existing customer service teams are overwhelmed and ill-equipped to handle queries. “They don’t even understand the project details,” one dealer said.
The project’s payment model has also sparked criticism. The requirement for upfront payment ignores the reality of hire purchase agreements, making it difficult for many Ugandans to afford the new plates. “It’s completely out of touch with how our industry works,” a dealer explained.
Security concerns are also growing after digital plates failed to help recover motorcycles stolen in December 2024. “If the system can’t even track stolen bikes, then what’s the point?” a frustrated dealer questioned.
Transparency remains a key issue, with many Ugandans unaware of the new processes, costs, and regulations. The project was suspended in July 2023 due to inadequate sensitization, yet public awareness remains low. “There has been no proper education campaign,” a dealer noted.
Adding to the frustration is the high cost of digital plates compared to neighboring countries. Ugandans must pay 150,000 shillings for vehicle replacements and 50,000 shillings for motorcycles, essentially paying twice for the same service. Meanwhile, new registrations cost 714,300 shillings, significantly higher than in Kenya.
Dealers are now urging the government to address the project’s inefficiencies, calling for a system that is more transparent, affordable, and effective in improving vehicle identification.
