BY OKIDI PATRICK
The Secretary of the Uganda Taxi Operators and Drivers Association (UTODA), Mr. Benard Anyeko Masanga, has called on all drivers within Lango sub-region to be cautious as Ebola health threat grows.
Anyeko Benard Masanga has put transporters on notice to strictly enforce Standard Operating Procedures against Ebola, warning that laxity could expose the public to danger.
Masanga issued the warning on Monday while addressing journalists at the Lira City Bus Park, as concern grows over reported Ebola cases in Uganda and outbreaks in neighbouring countries.
“No Room for Leniency”
“The Ebola threat has intensified. Every bus park, taxi stage, and vehicle must have handwashing points and sanitizers. Passengers must sanitise before boarding,” Masanga said.
He told the media that drivers, and conductors that they have a duty to protect travellers and the wider community. “This is not optional. We shall not wait for a case in Lira to act. Prevention starts now,” he added.
Masanga directed all transport companies to provide handwashing facilities with clean water and soap at loading points. He also urged them to avail sanitizers in vehicles and ensure regular cleaning of seats, handles, and surfaces.
Operators were told to stop overcrowding and to sensitise passengers on Ebola symptoms, including sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and unexplained bleeding.
Lira City Taxi operators authorities have heightened surveillance at major entry points and busy public places. Masanga said health teams are working with security to monitor compliance, and those who defy the guidelines risk penalties.
“We are moving to all stages and parks to encourage our people ob handwashing facilities or sanitizers, ” he added.
He appealed to passengers to demand compliance from operators and to report any stage or vehicle flouting the SOPs.
“Ebola spreads fast, but it can be stopped if we all play our part. Wash your hands, sanitise, and avoid unnecessary body contact,” Masanga said.
The Ministry of Health has listed several districts as high risk and called for nationwide vigilance. Lira City lies on a busy transit route linking northern Uganda to Kampala and beyond, raising the need for strict checks.
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