Tuesday 20, August 2024 {HMC} Auto-rickshaw drivers in Mogadishu have expressed relief after the Somali government reduced Bajaj motorcycle license fees and fines following two days of protests in the capital.
The Ministry of Transport and Aviation announced the changes, addressing concerns raised by the drivers who rely on their vehicles for their livelihood.
“We are very grateful to the Ministry of Transport for listening to our complaints and reducing the license fee to $106.50, down from $300. The fine for violations has also been lowered from $50 to $5,” said one of the Bajaj motorcycle drivers in Mogadishu.
The drivers, many of whom are young men struggling with one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, praised the government’s decision. “The government’s decision encourages us to continue and believe in our country,” one driver said. Another added, “We were worried about the life of our families after the tax increase, and I urge the government not to hinder our life and work.”
Key Changes Announced:
License Procedures: Drivers must now attend recognized driving schools, where they will receive training in road safety, road signs, and proper driving techniques. Those with expired licenses will need to renew them under the new procedures, which include mandatory re-examinations.
Fee Adjustments:
The renewal fee for existing licenses in Benadir has been reduced to $50.
The fee for obtaining a new Bajaj motorcycle license is set at $41.5, payable to the Ministry of Finance’s Single Treasury Account.
The medical eye exam fee has been lowered to $25, while the physical health exam fee is now $15.
The cost for obtaining a birth certificate and national ID has been reduced to $10, with a $15 fee for those without a passport or national ID.
Enforcement: Security forces have been directed not to fine Bajaj drivers with expired licenses, except for the Road Safety Division, which retains the authority to issue fines. Drivers whose licenses have been suspended must retake the necessary tests to regain their driving privileges.
The reduction in fees comes at a critical time for Somalia’s youth, 67% of whom are unemployed. Bajaj driving has become a crucial source of income, and any increase in operational costs, such as vehicle license fees and taxes, directly threatens their ability to support their families.
One young driver also requested the Ministry of Transport to reopen roads in the capital that have been closed, pointing out that security forces have restricted vehicle access to certain main roads, further complicating their work.
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