Safer roads ahead as WATU opens riding school in Gulu

12 February 2026, 3:25 pm

By Gift Okello

WATU has unveiled the first-ever riding school for boda boda riders in Gulu, a significant step aimed at improving road safety and professionalising boda boda operations across Northern Uganda.

The initiative, launched in Gulu City on Wednesday afternoon from their office, seeks to address the rising number of road accidents involving motorcycle riders. Speaking at the launch, WATU Country Director Damien Fuerouth said Uganda recorded around 6,000 boda boda-related accidents last year, nearly half of which were fatal.

The school operates under WATU’s driving training programme, Watu Shule, which the company says has reduced road accidents by 30 percent among enrolled riders in areas where it has partnered with the traffic police.

WATU’s Head of Mobility, Benjamin Mukasa, attributed the reduction to structured training and ongoing follow-up with riders after enrolment. He noted that the programme began in Central Uganda two years ago and expanded to the West Nile sub-region last year.

Traffic Police Officer Bruno Niwanga welcomed the programme, saying it will help reduce road crashes.

He added that having a licence without proper training is ineffective, urging riders and other motorists to take full advantage of the training.

Gulu City Inspector of Vehicle Inspection (IOV) Alinda Oscar praised WATU for prioritising road safety.

Meanwhile, Moses Ojok, Chairperson of the Gulu East Boda Boda Association, said the school will enhance riders’ knowledge and professionalism.

Residents also expressed support for the initiative. Ocen Emmy, a Gulu City resident, said the programme would promote discipline among road users.

The launch marks a renewed effort to strengthen road safety measures and professional standards within the boda boda sector in Gulu and across the region.