Boda Boda riders have been called upon to play a more active role in national development by complying with their tax obligations, particularly the annual Shs 20,000 advance income tax mandated by law.
The appeal was made by Clare Sanyu, Supervisor of the Northern Region Stakeholder Coordination Project at the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), during a recent engagement with Boda Boda operators in Gulu City.
Under Ugandan law, motorcycle operators are required to pay Shs20,000 annually, based on their licensing to carry one passenger.
However, Sanyu noted that compliance within the sector remains significantly low.
“As riders, you have a responsibility to contribute to national revenue,” Sanyu said. “While citizens demand services, each of you must uphold your rights and fulfill your obligations.”
She acknowledged the critical role Boda Boda riders play in Uganda’s transport sector but cautioned against engaging in illegal practices such as transporting contraband and operating numberless motorcycles.
“Do not use your motorcycles to smuggle goods or carry suspicious items,” she warned. “The law is clear, and enforcement will catch up with you. Always be aware of what you’re transporting.”
The outreach was well received by local riders. Ocen Emmy, Chairperson of the Gulu West Boda Boda Association, expressed appreciation for the dialogue, describing it as a long-overdue interaction with the tax authority.
“We’ve gone over 10 years without engaging with URA,” Ocen said. “This session was eye-opening. We appreciate the softer, more informative approach being taken and urge our members to embrace such platforms.”
He encouraged fellow riders to prioritize such engagements to deepen their understanding of tax obligations and their role in national development.
The meeting is part of URA’s broader strategy to increase voluntary tax compliance through education, especially among informal sector players such as Boda Boda riders.
