Gulu City — In a historic move to unify and transform Uganda’s boda boda industry, Union App, a technology-driven mobility platform, on Wednesday kicked off the first-ever National Boda Boda Union Leadership Retreat at Sacred Heart Secondary School in Gulu City, bringing together over 1,200 boda boda leaders from 135 districts.
The two-day retreat, hosted under the theme “Uniting for Leadership, Innovation and Economic Empowerment,” was officially opened by Gen (Rtd) Salim Saleh, the Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), who delivered a heartfelt address emphasising financial discipline, unity, and innovation in the sector.
“The boda boda industry needs healing. That’s why I prayed, ‘Dear Lord, thank you for healing the boda boda industry through Union App,’” said Gen Saleh. “We cannot continue to fund Emyooga SACCOs that cannot account for what they have already received. Accountability must come first before we consider giving more support.”
The retreat, organised by Union App, aims to digitally organise and empower boda boda riders through a modern, verified, and fair platform that connects riders to passengers while enhancing safety, trust, and financial inclusion.
Gen Saleh’s keynote speech was followed by a call to action for boda boda unions and SACCOs to embrace transparency and digitisation as critical steps toward sustainability and accessing future government or private-sector support.
“Let us move from chaos to coordination,” he urged. “You are not just riders — you are a critical economic engine. You deserve systems that work for you, and platforms like Union App can help achieve that.”
As Gen. Saleh concluded his remarks, he left riders with a rallying call: “This is your time. Take charge of your unions. Embrace innovation. Be accountable. And together, we can transform not just your industry, but Uganda itself.”
Securing Riders’ Financial Futures
In a groundbreaking partnership, the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) announced a new push to bring social security to Uganda’s informal sector, starting with boda boda riders.
“You are not just riders, you are entrepreneurs, breadwinners, and community leaders,” said Rebekah Kabugo-Mugisha, NSSF Senior Manager, Partnerships and Business Development.
“The amended NSSF Act now allows you to contribute voluntarily. With our Smartlife Flexi product, you can save any amount, at any time, and earn interest while building a secure financial future.”
The NSSF partnership promises to help riders transition from hand-to-mouth living to long-term financial planning, with access to retirement savings and economic security.
The retreat also featured exhibitions, digital literacy training, and stakeholder dialogues focused on creating sustainable solutions for Uganda’s estimated 1 million boda boda riders.
Also in attendance were Hon. Kyofatogabye Kabuye, the Minister of State for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, and officials from Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), and various union leaders.
