In Uganda’s transport ecosystem, taxis and boda bodas are often seen as just transporters. But we believe we are much more than that. We are community gatekeepers, guardians of public spaces, and change- makers in our own right. It is in this spirit that we, the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation usher in a new dawn for our industry with the launch of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation Cooperative Union
“ T a x i “ Union .”
Inspired by the remarkable impact the Boda Union has created since its inception in January 2025, we believe the time is now for the Taxi Union to stand alongside the Boda Union. Together, we aim to drive lasting transformation and elevate Uganda’s public transport sector to new heights. Our association with the Boda Union symbolizes a turning point for our industry and is redefining what it means to serve the public.
Changing the Narrative Together
For too long, both taxi drivers and boda riders have faced criticism: accusations of indiscipline, disregard for traffic rules, poor customer care, and even hooliganism. We cannot deny that these challenges exist, but instead of remaining defensive, we have chosen to take responsibility and reshape the narrative. By working under the Union, we are committing ourselves to a higher standard of service, built on integrity, respect, and responsibility.
Through training and capacity- building, the Taxi Union will equip our members to serve passengers better and to restore the public’s trust. When taxi drivers embrace discipline on the road, the results extend far beyond better transportation. The roads are less congested, Uganda’s workforce is more productive, and in the long run, our economy is much stronger. A productive nation is a prosperous nation, and we are determined to play our part.
Strength in Numbers
Unity is power. For years, fragmentation has weakened our sector, making it difficult to influence policy or attract meaningful support. Now, by rallying behind a shared vision with the Boda Union, we can confidently present a united voice before government and development partners. Self-employment
Federation
A well-organized, unified transport sector is not just
for optics. It is a way of empowering our people at the grassroots by enabling drivers to move from being employees of the “baggagga” (the well off ) to becoming owners themselves.
Driving Into the Future Our decision for integration is not just about solving today’s problems, it’s also about preparing for tomorrow. Uganda is moving steadily towards clean and sustainable energy, and the electrification of vehicles will not stop with boda bodas. As the Boda Union is championing the electric bike revolution in Uganda, the Taxi Union will inevitably transition into this greener future, cutting fuel costs, reducing harmful emissions, and saving the country billions in fuel
The Boda Union has garnered various partnerships since its launch including; bike suppliers, manufacturers and financiers. We believe that our move to operate under the Union opens doors for us to enter similar partnerships to access more favourable financing schemes, better deals from vehicle and spare parts suppliers, further lowering operational costs and improving our efficiency. Economic Empowerment is the Goal
As one of Uganda’s largest sources of informal employment, empowering the transport sector is, therefore, not just an industry matter but a national priority. For us, economic empowerment under the Union means more than income, it translates into
better homes, access to quality education for our children, improved healthcare for our families, and the opportunity to live long, fulfilling lives.
Synergizing with the Boda Union places our sector at the center of Uganda’s development story. Together, we are shaping a future where both drivers and riders thrive, serve our communities better, and enjoy the fruits of their hard work .
For Uganda’s taxi fraternity, this is a landmark moment set to transform public perception, uplift livelihoods, and build
a transport sector that Ugandans will feel proud of.
Rashid Ssekindi, the Chairman and Kidde Stephen Kiyaga & Mustafa Mayambala, Vice Chairmen, Uganda Taxi Operators Federation
