The city of Bunia, located in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has started enforcing a rule requiring motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers to wear helmets and vests. This decision was announced by the city's mayor, Mbui Kola Bosco, in a communiqué released on Sunday. The mayor instructed the National Police, specifically the Road Traffic Police, to conduct systematic checks on motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers starting from Monday, September 21, 2026.
According to the mayor, the decision to enforce this rule was made due to a observed laxity in the adherence to this obligation by some motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers. The goal is to ensure that these road users comply with safety regulations. The mayor's note emphasized the importance of vigilance in enforcing these safety measures to prevent accidents and promote road safety.
The authorities have also requested that leaders of all taxi-moto associations operating in Bunia submit lists of their members to the mayor's office. These lists must be submitted by Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 14:00. This move is aimed at ensuring that all motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers are accounted for and are aware of the new regulations.
The enforcement of the helmet and vest policy is expected to improve road safety in Bunia. The city has seen a significant number of accidents involving motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers, and the authorities hope that this measure will reduce the number of casualties. The police have been instructed to be strict in enforcing this rule, and motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers who fail to comply will be penalized.
The decision to enforce this rule has been welcomed by some residents of Bunia, who believe that it will help reduce the number of accidents on the city's roads. However, others have expressed concerns that the move may negatively impact the livelihoods of motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers who rely on their vehicles for income.
The mayor's office has urged motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers to comply with the new regulations and to cooperate with the authorities during the enforcement process. The city council has also promised to provide support to motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers who may be affected by the new regulations.
The enforcement of the helmet and vest policy in Bunia is part of a broader effort to improve road safety in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The government has been working to reduce the number of accidents on the country's roads, and this move is seen as a step in the right direction.
Key points
- The city of Bunia has begun enforcing a mandatory helmet and vest policy for motorcyclists and taxi-moto drivers to improve road safety.
