KAMPALA, UGANDA – The ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran have been identified as an unexpected obstacle in the rollout of new Digital Number Plates in Uganda.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This was revealed by the Ministry of Works and Transport Principal Communications Officer Mrs. Suzan Kataike in an exclusive interview with the media following concerns over the issuance of Number Plates.
Suzan explained that the recent slowdown in production and installation delays in the country are due to supply chain disruptions affecting key technological components.
She stated that the ministry has received reports from the contractor, Joint Stock Company Global Security, indicating that essential parts, specifically the chips and Bluetooth beacons required for the plates, are sourced from Dubai, which was recently hit in the Iran war.
The announcement comes amid growing public concern regarding the quality and functionality of the new plates already in circulation, with users reporting various performance issues that have prompted the government to seek alternative solutions.
Suzan noted that Joint Stock Company Global Security has been advised to implement rerouting procedures, sourcing the necessary components via other secure destinations to bypass the conflict zone.
The ministry confirmed that the rollout is progressing, particularly for new vehicles, with first-time registrations currently being processed at bonded facilities.
The facilities serve approximately 200 motor vehicles and between 500 and 600 motorcycles daily, following the official commencement of installation on November 1, 2024.
The new Intelligent Transport Monitoring System is expected to provide real-time tracking and identification of vehicles, a capability authorities believe will significantly mitigate security threats posed by criminals across the country.