The Ministry of Works and Transport has suspended the operations of YY Coaches for 15 days following two serious road crashes, one of which claimed three lives.
The suspension, which took effect on Tuesday at 7 p.m., was announced by State Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama during a press briefing in Kampala.
Citing major safety breaches, the minister stated that continued operations by the company posed a threat to public safety.
“We are suspending the operations of YY Buses starting from today at 7 p.m. In just two weeks, they have recorded two accidents—one fatal and another with serious injuries,” Byamukama said.
The most recent incident occurred in Katosi, where a YY bus reportedly overturned and caught fire after the driver, allegedly speeding, swerved to avoid a motorcycle. The crash resulted in deaths, multiple injuries, and damage to property.
“In the Katosi incident, the driver was speeding and tried to dodge a boda-boda. He lost control, the bus overturned and caught fire. Lives were lost, people were injured, and property destroyed,” Byamukama explained.
As part of the suspension, the ministry has issued a set of mandatory requirements the company must fulfill within the 15-day period.
These include:
- Submitting all drivers for medical and competence evaluations
- Surrendering all buses for mechanical inspection
- Presenting a driver refresher training program
- Providing driver appointment letters for verification
Byamukama warned that failure to meet at least 40% of the listed requirements could result in a permanent suspension.
“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 indefinitely,” he said.
In addition to the crashes, the ministry is also investigating broader concerns about the company’s practices.
Authorities have received reports alleging that some YY buses may have been used to transport illegal goods, including waragi. Further concerns have emerged about drivers allegedly manipulating their age records through court affidavits to bypass the legal retirement age of 60.
“At that age, drivers are more vulnerable to health issues such as high blood pressure. We encourage them to consider other forms of work,” Byamukama advised.
He stressed that these new enforcement measures would be accompanied by legal action where necessary, including possible arrests, license revocations, and long-term driving bans for those found liable.
“The Ministry’s goal is to safeguard the public and restore discipline in the public transport sector,” he added.
At least now, it’s good to hear government intervention for public gains. Well-done Ministry of Works and Transport