The Inspector General of Police (IGP) on Wednesday issued updated guidelines for the operation of commercial motorcycle taxis, commonly known as boda-bodas.
This development stems from a meeting between Lt. Gen. Atem Marol Biar, the IGP, and Levi Abugo Lasuba Abate, the Chairman of the Boda-Boda Association in Juba.
Following the meeting at the Interior Ministry headquarters, Maj. Gen. Daniel Justin Buolo, the spokesperson of the South Sudan National Police Service, addressed reporters.
He highlighted several new guidelines, including the mandatory wearing of helmets for both passengers and riders and the prohibition of teenagers from operating motorcycles, among other measures.
Maj. Gen. Daniel Justin Buolo emphasized the implementation of new guidelines for Boda-bodas. He stated, “We were directed to inform the public that for the Boda-bodas, every rider must have a helmet for the Boda-boda rider and the passenger.”
Additionally, he pointed out concerns about the involvement of teenagers in operating Boda-bodas and rickshaws, declaring an immediate ban on such activities. Moreover, Gen. Justin highlighted the issue of Boda-bodas carrying more than one passenger and specified that those engaged in transporting goods must do so without any additional passengers.
The police have been instructed to enforce these regulations promptly, with Gen. Justin emphasizing, “The police have been told to enforce the new guideline effective within a period of two weeks.”
“The National Police will address this matter, granting Boda-boda riders a grace period of two weeks. We anticipate the cooperation of our Boda-boda riders, led by the Boda-boda chairman, to disseminate this information among their community and ensure the swift implementation of these directives,” stated the senior police official.
Levi Abugo Lasuba Abate, Chairman of the Boda-boda in Central Equatoria Association, emphasized their proactive approach to the helmet requirement.
He stated, “Our Boda-boda office has established branches in the three zones of Juba City Council – Kator, Munuki, and Kator. Riders can conveniently obtain helmets from these offices, with different colors assigned based on the respective zones. Starting tomorrow, it is mandatory for everyone to have a helmet. Failing to comply means you are violating the regulations of South Sudan.”