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 major step aimed at enhancing road safety and professionalizing boda boda operations across Northern Uganda.

The initiative, which was unveiled in Gulu City on Wednesday afternoon from their office, aims at addressing the growing number of road accidents involving motorcycle riders. Speaking at the launch, WATU Country Director Damien Fuerouth said Uganda recorded about 6,000 boda boda-related accidents last year, nearly half of which were fatal.

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

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

Traffic Police Officer Bruno Niwanga welcomed the program, saying it will help curb road crashes.

He added that having a license without proper training is useless, urging riders and other motorists to take advantage of the training

Gulu City inspectorate of Vehicle Inspection (IOV) Alinda Oscar praised WATU for prioritizing road safety,

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

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

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