KAMPALA, Uganda (UGNEWSLINE) –
The Ministry of Works and Transport has suspended the operations of Uganda Driving Standards Agency (UDSA) to allow investigations into its activities, following a meeting with bus drivers to address concerns over training, licensing and safety in the transport sector.
The decision was announced on Monday, October 12, 2026, during a meeting chaired by the Commissioner for Transport Regulation and Safety, Winston Katushabe, with members of the Uganda Bus Drivers Association (UBDA) in Kampala.
According to the ministry, UDSA has been conducting refresher training courses for bus drivers. The suspension will allow investigations into its activities as the government reviews the framework governing refresher training and recognition of authorised training companies.
The meeting also addressed concerns surrounding driver badges, with the ministry clarifying that the badges remain free of charge and are renewable after one year.
Drivers will be able to renew their badges online at any Uganda Driver Licensing System (UDLS) point. The ministry also said a temporary measure would be introduced to assist drivers whose badges have expired.
However, drivers have been asked to submit a list of those with expired badges, with the ministry restricting the process to individuals who have undergone the required training.
The discussions also highlighted divisions within the leadership of bus drivers. Katushabe said the government would continue engaging the different factions to promote unity and address their concerns.
The ministry commended the drivers for choosing dialogue over industrial action and gave them one week to submit a detailed written document outlining their grievances and proposed solutions.
A follow-up meeting involving bus drivers will be convened within the same period to review their submissions and agree on the way forward.
In a move aimed at improving communication between the government and transport operators, the Ministry of Works and Transport also announced plans to hold quarterly meetings with drivers across the country.
The engagement comes amid efforts to address operational and safety concerns in the bus transport sector, including the training and licensing of drivers.
The ministry said continued engagement with drivers would provide an opportunity to discuss their concerns and improve coordination within the sector.
