Ganyegenya taxi crackdown drives up cost of spare parts

What the report says

Kampala taxi owners and mechanics say the government’s 100-day enforcement drive against taxis in dangerous mechanical condition, known locally as ganyegenya, is making repairs more expensive and reducing the number of vehicles on the road. The campaign was announced on August 20 by Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama, and police began enforcement on August 24, according to The Independent Uganda’s report based on URN material.

The article says owners of older Toyota Hiace 14-seater taxis, especially the older “Kigege” models, have been hit hard because many of their parts are now scarce. Operators quoted by URN said items such as reverse switches and handbrake cables have risen sharply in price, while some owners are turning to cheaper parts imported from China or Taiwan, which they say may not last as long as Japanese-made replacements. Mechanics also said basic body repairs, including panel beating and spraying, can cost taxi owners between Shs1.5 million and Shs2 million depending on the vehicle’s condition.

The crackdown has also exposed taxis running without required licences and other permits, adding to the financial pressure on operators. The report lists several regulatory costs, including a PSV licence, tax-related payments, insurance, inspection fees and KCCA park-user charges. As more taxis are forced off the road or sent to garages, passengers in Kampala and other cities are already finding transport harder to secure.

The issue is particularly sensitive as schools prepare to reopen for the third term, since taxis are a major means of travel for learners and commuters. The Independent Uganda’s report frames the crackdown as a road-safety measure with wider effects on transport availability and the cost of keeping older taxis in service.