Byron Onen, the Chairperson of the Raksa Transporters association, explained that the tuk-tuks were inspired by their experiences in Juba, South Sudan, and have since become a preferred mode of transport due to their affordability and safety features.
The introduction of three-wheeled motorcycles, also known as tuk-tuks, has significantly transformed the transport sector in Gulu city, offering affordable travel options for residents while creating challenges for traditional Boda-boda motorcycle operators.
The tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled motorcycle commonly used in Asia and parts of Africa, has gained popularity in Gulu since its introduction in 2022. The city's population of 232,723, as per the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, has seen the emergence of 70 tuk-tuks operating along routes such as Lacor, Gulu University, Bungatira, Unyama, Pageya, Koro Abili, and Palenga.
Byron Onen, the Chairperson of the Raksa Transporters association, explained that the tuk-tuks were inspired by their experiences in Juba, South Sudan, and have since become a preferred mode of transport due to their affordability and safety features.
“We started tuk tuk transport business in 2022 with just two tuk-tuks after seeing them in Juba, South Sudan. My colleagues and I thought it would be a good business since the population of Gulu city is growing fast,” Onen said.
Tuk-tuks are cheaper than traditional Boda-bodas, with fares significantly lower, for example, from Lacor to town, where tuk-tuks charge 1,000 shillings compared to the 3,000 shillings charged by Boda-bodas. They also provide added protection from rain, which Boda-bodas cannot offer.
“In the beginning, we faced resistance from Boda-boda operators who did not want us to stage anywhere, sometimes it would result into physical fights but we have addressed this by buying parking slots from the street parking contractor, Punena traders,” Onen said.
However, their arrival has caused tension with Boda-boda operators, especially those in the central business district. Emmy Ocen, the chairperson of the Gulu City West Boda-boda Association, expressed concern that the tuk-tuks are threatening their business, particularly in the evening when tuk-tuks provide transportation to various city locations.
“Boda-boda who stage in the central business district are the most affected especially those at the Gulu main market square. Tuk-tuks have stages at the market taking people to different directions of the city especially in the evening,” Ocen said.
Boda-boda operators are now adjusting by planning to use mobile apps like SafeBoda to attract customers directly, rather than relying on traditional street staging. “We want to introduce the safe boda method where our members can find customers using the phone apps and pick them up from wherever they are instead of waiting at the stages,” he said.
Despite these challenges, the tuk-tuk service is benefiting travelers like Debra Acii and Jackline Aneno, who find it cheaper and more comfortable compared to Boda-bodas. “We used to pay 3,000 shillings on Boda-boda from Lacor to town but we now pay only 1,000 shillings. Tuk-tuks carry only five people meaning they fill up faster compared to taxis,” said Acii.
“I save 1,000 shillings on every trip. My movement is also not affected by rains unlike the Boda-boda motorcycles which cannot shield you from the rain,” said Aneno.
With growing competition and re-strategizing from Boda-boda operators, the transport landscape in Gulu city is evolving, creating a more dynamic market for commuters.
Judith Akello
Freelancer