The government has set a two-year deadline for motorists to transition to digital number plates under the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS).
Speaking at a press briefing in Mbale, Susan Kataike, the principal communications officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, outlined the program’s phased implementation.
The rollout began in November 2023 with the installation of digital plates on government vehicles, with 2,143 already fitted. By November 2024, the initiative expanded to include new motorcycles, with 11,721 motorcycles now equipped with digital plates.
The ministry is collaborating with 18 motorcycle importers to ensure all new motorcycles are sold with digital plates. “Dealers in Mbale are already offering motorcycles with the new plates,” Ms. Kataike noted.
Starting January 6, 2025, the third phase will require all newly imported motor vehicles to have digital number plates installed at a cost of Shs700,000. Existing vehicle owners will also need to replace their plates, with fees set at Shs50,000 for motorcycles and Shs150,000 for cars.
Ms. Kataike encouraged vehicle owners to prepare early to avoid last-minute challenges. “You have ample time to save for this transition over the next two years,” she advised.
To facilitate the process, service desks have been established at driving permit offices nationwide.
The ITMS goes beyond a simple numbering upgrade, incorporating advanced security features like traffic violation detection and real-time vehicle tracking. Integrated with security cameras, the system offers facial recognition capabilities to bolster traffic management and enhance national security.
“This initiative will transform traffic management and improve safety,” Ms. Kataike emphasized.
The ITMS project is being executed by Virtus Global Security Ltd, a Russian contractor, under the supervision of the Ministries of Security and Works and Transport.
