Malaba & Mutukula, Uganda – January 6, 2025: The Ministry of Works and Transport has rolled out the third phase of the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) project, marking a pivotal step in implementing digital vehicle registration plates for private and public motor vehicles entering Uganda.
The launch events were held at the Malaba and Mutukula border entry points, signifying the initiative’s nationwide impact.
The ITMS project, initiated in November 2023, began with government vehicles, followed by motorcycles and tricycles in November 2024. Today’s rollout is specifically for vehicles undergoing first-time registration within Uganda, further advancing efforts to enhance transport monitoring, combat motor vehicle-related crimes, and improve road safety.
Susan Kataike with a team from the Ministry of Works and Transport accompanied by the service provider JSCGS team at the one-stop customs centre in Malaba as they start the rollout of the Digital Plates Registration
Cost and Process for Registration
The cost of a digital registration plate is set at UGX 714,300, and the Ministry has outlined a streamlined application process for two categories of vehicle importers:
Vehicles Clearing Taxes at Entry Points (DIRECT IM4):
Importers clearing taxes at Mombasa or Dar es Salaam can enter Uganda with a vehicle already fitted with a digital registration plate and a logbook in hand. After clearing taxes, owners are required to log onto the system portal (portal@itms-ug.com) to book their plates.
Vehicles Cleared After Storage in Bonded Warehouses (FROM IM7):
Vehicles imported into bonded warehouses must complete tax clearance on the URA portal, followed by assessments by the Ministry of Works and Transport. Once this is done, clients can make a booking via the ITMS portal for the digital registration plate, choosing a location and time for fitment.
Nationwide Fitment Centres
According to Susan Kataike, Head of Communications at the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Ministry, in collaboration with Joint Stock Company Global Security (JSCGS), has established fitment centres at border points, selected bonded warehouses, and upcountry offices.
In Kampala, nine major bonds, including Kampala Modernity, Cadam Enterprises, and CFAO Motors, have been designated as fitment centres.
For upcountry services, offices have been set up in key towns, including Arua, Gulu, Jinja, Mbale, Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale.
Efficient Rollout and Public Access
Kataike emphasised the readiness of the Ministry and its partners to ensure a seamless rollout.
“Our goal is to make the process efficient and accessible to all Ugandans. We encourage vehicle owners to make timely bookings through the portal or by contacting JSCGS,” she said.
Looking Ahead
The ITMS project, a government initiative with Joint Stock Company Global Security as the implementation partner, aims to revolutionise transport monitoring in Uganda. The digital plates will enhance tracking capabilities, improve compliance, and significantly contribute to reducing vehicle-related crimes.
With today’s rollout, Uganda takes another significant stride toward modernizing its transport systems and aligning with global standards. Vehicle owners and importers are encouraged to take full advantage of the services and facilities set up across the country.