Gov’t Urged to Fast-Track Digital Number Plates to Curb Crime

Donozio Kahonda, MP for Ruhinda South and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Defence, has called on the government to expedite the rollout of digital number plates to help reduce crime in Uganda. In a September 20, 2024, interview at Parliament, Kahonda highlighted the potential of these plates, which were introduced in November 2023, to aid in tracking and identifying vehicles involved in criminal activities.

“These digital plates are part of the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) project, designed to improve vehicle identification and tackle crimes like theft and carjacking,” Kahonda said.

Equipped with Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) chips and QR codes, the digital plates are difficult to forge, allowing real-time vehicle tracking and aiding in crime prevention and the recovery of stolen vehicles.

Kahonda’s appeal aligns with the government’s broader efforts to enhance security through technology. The government has already signed a long-term agreement with a Russian tech firm to implement the system nationwide, marking a significant step in modernizing Uganda’s vehicle registration process and boosting public safety.