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Northern Province Minister, Leonard Mbao, has expressed concern over the increasing number of motorbike-related accidents in the province, which he attributed to reckless driving and disregard for traffic rules by motorcyclists.
Speaking during a media briefing in Kasama on Sunday, Mbao revealed that many motorcyclists, emboldened by alleged political connections, were resisting enforcement efforts by law enforcement agencies.
“Most of them seem to be politically attached, and when you report them to the police, they rush to a politician for protection. This makes it difficult for authorities to address the issue effectively,” Mbao said.
The minister highlighted Mbala as the hardest-hit area, noting that accidents were occurring daily.
He disclosed that Mbala Hospital had even set up a dedicated ward to handle motorbike-related injuries.
Mbao revealed that he had engaged Transport and Logistics Minister Frank Tayali and Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwimbu to find solutions to the growing problem.
The minister also noted that many of the motorcyclists involved were foreigners from a neighboring country who used the bikes for business transactions and, in some cases, smuggling activities.
“We want the police and the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) to intensify patrols, strictly monitor motorcyclists, and increase public awareness campaigns to promote road safety,” Mbao said.
He called for urgent action to prevent further loss of life, emphasizing the need for both enforcement and public education to address the crisis.
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