EPS suspension delaying full digital number plate migration

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing URN, reports that the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) has cleared a backlog of 6,000 applications for Uganda’s digital motor vehicle registration plates, ahead of an August 30, 2026 deadline set by Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama. The update follows complaints from motorists and businesses about delays in plate production and issuance, which had affected registration processes.

Uganda’s digital plate rollout started with government vehicles in late 2023, later included motorcycles, and in January 2025 was extended to private vehicles for both new registrations and replacement of older plates. According to the report, first-time registration costs 714,000 shillings, while replacing old plates costs 150,000 shillings. However, the planned funding for replacing old plates was tied to revenue from the Express Penalty System (EPS), which was launched last year and later suspended, leaving the contractor without that expected financing stream.

The contractor, Joint Stock Company Global Security (JSCGS), told stakeholders it had received 100,000 digital chips and was prioritising first-time vehicle and motorcycle registrations while continuing replacement applications. Company officials attributed previous shortages to supply chain disruptions linked to conflict in the Middle East, saying components are sourced from Russia, Dubai and China. Production Manager Austine Egesa said operations had accelerated after the minister’s intervention.

The report says more than 47,000 motorists have applied to replace old plates. ITMS says its system for post-registration services was initially meant for limited cases such as lost or damaged plates, not mass voluntary migration. The company says full migration for existing vehicle owners will depend on a government support mechanism, while first-time registration production remains stable at about 2,500 plates daily.