By Peter Luzinda
NATIONAL
Gen. Kahinda Otafiire has criticised Uganda’s Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), questioning whether the digital number plates project was properly planned and whether the technology acquired can deliver the security benefits expected of it.
Otafiire made the remarks on October 13, 2026, while appearing before Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure, which is investigating the project.
He told the committee that concerns about the system had been raised before its implementation, including warnings from police detectives, Makerere University experts and contacts in Kenya who reportedly indicated that similar systems had experienced difficulties.
The minister also questioned the compatibility of the equipment, citing concerns involving Chinese CCTV cameras and Russian chips.
He argued that the system functioned more like a fleet-management tracking tool than a comprehensive security platform, adding that services such as Uber offered better tracking capabilities.
Otafiire further questioned the role of police in the procurement process, suggesting that security agencies should have been more closely involved in decisions concerning a system intended to support law enforcement.
The project’s costs also came under scrutiny, with the minister questioning the reported price of approximately Shs714,300 per digital number plate and the terms of a multi-year contract with a Russian firm.
He used his appearance before the committee to reiterate that his responsibility was to serve the people of Uganda, rather than personal interests.
Otafiire said he would rather leave office and tend to his goats than remain in a position where his competence was not wanted.
His criticism comes as MPs examine the project’s planning, procurement and value for money, including questions about the feasibility studies conducted before implementation.
Former Works and Transport Minister, Gen. Katumba Wamala, who also appeared before the committee, defended the system by pointing to its intended security benefits.
The inquiry is expected to examine the concerns raised by officials, the suitability of the technology and whether the project has delivered value commensurate with its cost.
