Somalia’s Transports Minister and Mogadishu Mayor introduce key reforms aimed to address concerns of Tuk Tuk drivers

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation of the Federal Government of Somalia Honorable Fardowsa Osman Egal and Madale, Mogadishu’s Mayor who doubles to be the governor of Banaadir region have introduced key reforms addressing the concerns of Tuk Tuk drivers who staged tax protests in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu.

The Mayor and the transport minister announced steps to reduce burden and positive gestures on the drivers grievances. The announced reducing the registration fee to $106.5 and extending the license validity from three years to five years. They indicated that the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on drivers and streamline their operations in the city.

The Tuk Tuk drivers have staged protests voicing their grievances against government officials, alleging that the new financial policies have exacerbated their operational challenges considering the dire economic conditions in Somalia’s capital,Mogadishu and the additional financial burdens imposed by the government.

The city has also yesterday witnessed unexpected shutdown of businesses as key business areas closed their doors in protest against what they described as illegal taxation and rampant extortion by government officials and private companies.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed the matter and urged the business community to comply with the demanded fees while acknowledging their complaints.