The human cost of reckless use of tricycles in Arua city

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As teenagers and young people embrace the job of operating tricycles, commonly known as Raksas, in Arua city, the major concern is whether many of them are actually qualified to hold driving permits.

The three-wheeled motorcycles have become a menace on the city’s roads, contributing to accidents as overexcited youth exhibit reckless behaviour such as over-speeding, overloading, and disregarding traffic rules.

Their actions have not only endangered their passengers but also other road users.

Abdulatif Ssekajja, the officer in charge of traffic in Arua city, says the law does not permit underage individuals to ride and warns they risk arrest and prosecution if they do so.

“The issue of the Raksas, we know that it’s part of the motorists in Arua City, however, it is not allowed to be ridden by younger boys. Any rider who is above the age of 18 is supposed to be riding so long as he is a competent rider and has all the legal documents. Let’s say the driving license is in a class of D1, someone is supposed to be tested by the Inspector of Vehicles, as a competent rider to ride it, and the Rakisa must have all the requirements like insurance, reflectors, and it must be in good condition,” said Ssekajja.

“If somebody wants to carry passengers, he is supposed to have what is called a PSV, the license that allows him to carry passengers. The same applies to those who are carrying goods; they are supposed to have a license that allows them to carry goods,” said Ssekajja.

He also called upon tricycle riders to wear reflective gear or ensure reflectors are fixed on their tricycles, especially when riding at night, in order to reduce accidents.

Sam Ayikobua, a boda boda rider in Arua city, attributes the rise in accidents among tricycle operators to substance abuse.

“About this road, concerning the use of Raksas, the riders need to go under a refresher course organised by the traffic officers. Basically, it’s all about cooperation. They need to avoid taking drugs,” said Ayikobua.

Another tricycle rider in Arua city, only known as Suku and commonly referred to as “Governor,” admitted to riding at high speeds, saying the fear of missing out on potential earnings pressures them to ride faster.

The presence of underage tricycle riders on the roads poses significant safety risks, highlighting the urgent need for strict enforcement of age restrictions and greater awareness among parents and the riders themselves.

Traffic Police on road crashes

As part of ongoing efforts to reduce road crashes, the Traffic Police have conducted a nationwide crackdown on reckless driving.

Recently, 467 drivers were arrested for various offences, including driving without valid licences, careless driving, speeding, and dangerous loading.

Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic rules, especially for motorcyclists, who remain among the most vulnerable road users.

He also urged motorists to maintain their vehicles, drive defensively, and observe speed limits to reduce road fatalities.

Road safety campaigns for schoolchildren

The campaign also aims to raise awareness about road safety, particularly for pedestrians and children, who remain at high risk.

According to recent statistics, 1,666 pedestrians died in road crashes in 2024, with 702 of them being children under the age of 18.