Auto-rickshaw drivers in Mogadishu have expressed relief and gratitude after the Somali government announced a significant reduction in Bajaj motorcycle license fees and fines, following two days of protests that highlighted the struggles faced by these drivers.
The Ministry of Transport and Aviation, responding to the concerns of the Bajaj drivers, introduced several key changes aimed at easing the financial burden on these essential workers. Among the reforms, drivers will now be required to attend recognized driving schools where they will receive formal training in road safety, road signs, and proper driving techniques. Drivers with expired licenses will need to renew them, with the new process including mandatory re-examinations to ensure compliance with road safety standards.
As part of the fee adjustments, the cost to renew an existing Bajaj license in Benadir has been reduced to $50, a significant decrease from previous rates. New license applicants will pay $41.5, which is to be deposited directly into the Ministry of Finance’s Single Treasury Account. Additionally, the fees for required medical examinations have been lowered, with the eye exam now costing $25 and the physical health exam set at $15.
The government’s responsiveness to the protests has been met with approval from the Bajaj drivers, many of whom are young men facing the challenges of high unemployment.
One driver said , “We were deeply concerned about how we would support our families after the initial tax increase. I urge the government to continue to support us in our work and not to impose further obstacles.”
The recent protests, which brought attention to the financial difficulties faced by auto-rickshaw drivers, appear to have led to a positive outcome, with the government taking swift action to address the drivers’ concerns.
Mustaqbal
