The Ministry of Works and Transport has suspended the operations of the Uganda Driving Standards Agency (UDSA) pending investigations into its activities, following a meeting with bus drivers to address operational and safety concerns in the transport sector.

The meeting, chaired by the Commissioner for Transport Regulation and Safety, Winstone Katushabe, brought together members of the United Bus Drivers Association (UBDA) to discuss challenges affecting drivers and the wider bus transport industry.

During the meeting, Katushabe acknowledged divisions within the association’s leadership, assuring the drivers that government would continue engaging all factions to promote unity and address their concerns.

Among the key resolutions, the Ministry committed to reviewing the refresher training framework, including the recognition of authorised training companies, to address concerns surrounding driver training and professional standards.

The meeting also reaffirmed that driver badges remain free of charge, with renewals to be conducted online. The Ministry said a temporary arrangement would be introduced for drivers whose badges have expired.

Drivers were asked to submit a list of those with expired badges, strictly limited to individuals who have undergone the required training.

The Ministry commended the drivers for choosing dialogue over industrial action and gave them one week to submit a detailed document outlining their concerns and proposed solutions.

A follow-up meeting with all bus drivers will be held within the same period to discuss the submissions. The Ministry also resolved to hold quarterly engagements with drivers across the country to address emerging challenges and strengthen safety and professional standards in the bus transport sector.