KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ugandan government has suspended the operations of bus company YY Coaches Ltd for 15 days, effective Tuesday evening, citing alarming safety violations and a recent spate of fatal accidents.
State Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama announced the suspension during a press briefing in Kampala, following two serious road crashes involving YY buses within a two-week period. One of the accidents resulted in multiple fatalities.
Authorities said the latest incident occurred in Katosi when a YY bus overturned and caught fire after the driver, reportedly speeding, attempted to avoid a motorcycle.
“In the Katosi incident, the driver was speeding and attempted to dodge a boda-boda. He lost control, the vehicle overturned and caught fire. Lives were lost, people were injured, and property was destroyed,” Byamukama explained.
“We are suspending the operations of YY Buses starting from today at 7 p.m.,” the minister said, highlighting the urgency of the government’s action. “In just two weeks, they have reported two accidents, one fatal and another with serious injuries.”
As a condition for resuming operations, the Ministry of Works and Transport has mandated that YY Coaches submit all drivers for medical and competence assessments and ensure all buses undergo mechanical inspection. The company must also present a refresher training program for drivers and provide official appointment letters for all driving staff for verification.
Byamukama warned that the suspension could be extended indefinitely if the company fails to meet at least 40% of the required measures within the 15-day period.
“If YY Bus Company fails to meet at least 40% of the stipulated requirements within the 15-day window, we reserve the right to suspend their operations permanently,” he stated.
Beyond the recent accidents, the Ministry is also investigating serious allegations of illegal activity involving the company’s buses, including claims of transporting illicit substances like waragi, a local liquor. Concerns have also arisen regarding potential age-related fraud among drivers, with suspicions that some manipulated birth records to remain employed beyond the legal driving age of 60.
“At that age, drivers are more prone to health complications such as high blood pressure. We advise them to consider alternative work,” Byamukama said. He emphasized that drivers found guilty of malpractice or negligence could face arrest, license revocation, or permanent bans from the transport sector.
“The Ministry’s goal is to ensure public safety and restore discipline in the public transport sector,” Byamukama concluded.
