Lake Bunyonyi boat operators urge Uganda to cut proposed licensing fees
Boat operators on Uganda's Lake Bunyonyi say new registration and licensing fees under the Inland Water Transport Act could push them out of business. Charges run up to Shs600,000, and operators warn that fares could rise.
Boat operators and tourism players on Lake Bunyonyi want the government to lower proposed boat registration and licensing fees, the Nile Post reported. They warn that the charges could force operators out of business. They also say the fees could make water transport more expensive for local communities. The Ministry of Works and Transport is preparing to enforce the Inland Water Transport Act, 2021. The law requires all boats to be registered and to meet safety standards. Boats must carry life jackets and operate from gazetted landing sites. Offenders face fines of up to Shs4 million or imprisonment. The ministry says funding problems delayed enforcement. It now has the money to begin nationwide sensitisation before the law takes effect. Barnabas Twinomujuni, the Acting Principal Marine Licensing Officer, said registration would be valid for five years. Operating licences would need to be renewed every year. Under the proposed rates, passenger boats carrying fewer than 20 people will pay Shs200,000 for registration and annual licensing. Larger passenger boats will pay Shs600,000 to register and…
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