Speeding and red light fines go digital in Uganda

Uganda launched digital tools to catch fuel stations that dodge penalties through ownership transfers. The Energy Ministry joined with the Standards Bureau to track stations that previously escaped punishment. Fuel marking supervisor Peter Kitimbo explained how some stations changed owners right before losing their licenses. The new system gives each station unique digital stickers with GPS coordinates that follow the property regardless of who runs it. Previous violations will become the responsibility of any new owner.

Local leaders asked officials about single fuel pumps operating in remote areas without proper oversight. They worried these smaller operators might sell poor-quality fuel without facing regulation. Commissioner Frank Tukwasibwe admitted current laws mainly cover larger stations but said lawmakers could create rules for single pumps. He noted how Uganda moved from fuel shortages to having many competitors across the country. Officials encouraged people to buy only from stations displaying government stickers.

The government ran public awareness campaigns throughout the Masaka region before the workshop. They visited several towns, including Buwama, Lukaya, Sembabule, and Rushere. The program aims to monitor petroleum quality throughout the supply chain across Uganda.