Digital Number Plate backlog cleared, government revenue rises 16.4%

What the report says

Uganda’s Digital Number Plate Programme has moved past an earlier supply and installation backlog, according to a report published by The Independent Uganda. The article says Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure is still examining the programme, while the Ministry of Works and Transport has reported improved availability of plates and faster fitment times. The scrutiny is being led by committee chair Mwine Mpaka, after earlier delays had raised concerns for motorists, dealers and other stakeholders.

Winston Katushabe, the commissioner for transport regulation and safety, told Parliament that the situation had improved and that customers were now receiving plates more quickly. The ministry’s report, as quoted by the publisher, says shortages of plate components were resolved by August 2026 and the backlog was cleared that same month. It also says the average fitting time at Kampala bonds fell from 19 days in December 2025 to two days in September 2026, while border post installations were taking about three hours.

The article further says the ministry linked the rollout to stronger compliance and higher public revenue. In its first financial year of implementation, taxes reportedly rose by 17% and overall government revenue by 16.4%. The piece also notes that police have used the digital system in some theft investigations, which the ministry and parliament view as part of the programme’s wider value beyond vehicle registration. The committee said it will continue oversight as implementation progresses.