The QR code system, implemented since July 3rd, requires taxi owners and drivers to register on the "Taxi-Yaoundé.com" platform, as per a note signed by Mayor Luc Messi Atangana on June 25th. This initiative, supported by the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) under the "Mobilité verte Yaoundé" (Move) project, aims to create a database for the city's urban transport sector and enhance security. According to Catherine Kalisa, technical advisor for the Move Yaoundé project, the platform will enable the city to have a comprehensive database.
While some stakeholders, including union representatives, support the tool, others remain cautious about its effectiveness in preventing attacks or aggression in taxis. Roger Nzodom, president of the National Union of Professional Transport Conductors and Workers of Cameroon, notes that the QR code will not definitively eliminate insecurity in taxis. He emphasizes that it will primarily facilitate vehicle identification after an incident, but not prevent aggression.
Patrice Samen, president of the National Federation of Professional Chauffeur Unions, shares similar concerns, stating that the QR code is not designed to combat aggression or insecurity. A significant limitation of the system lies in identifying individuals, as it primarily tracks the vehicle owner and primary driver, but often not the substitute driver, commonly known as a "mercenaire."
The identification issue is a long-standing concern for unions, with Jean Collins Ndefossokeng, president of the National Union of Land Transport Sector Employees of Cameroon, stressing the need for a more comprehensive approach. He notes that it is the individual, not the vehicle, that commits aggression.
The QR code system is set to expand to motorcycle taxis and minibuses. Authorities hope that this initiative will improve the overall security and organization of Yaoundé's transport sector. However, concerns about the system's limitations and effectiveness persist among stakeholders.
The implementation of the QR code system comes as part of a broader effort to modernize and secure urban transport in Yaoundé. While some stakeholders welcome the initiative, others argue that more needs to be done to address the root causes of insecurity in the sector.
As the QR code system continues to roll out, its impact on the transport sector and the city's overall security remains to be seen. Key stakeholders, including union representatives and municipal authorities, will likely continue to monitor and assess the system's effectiveness.
Key points
- The QR code system aims to create a database for Yaoundé's urban transport sector and enhance security.
- Stakeholders have expressed concerns about the system's limitations, particularly regarding individual identification.
- The initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize and secure urban transport in Yaoundé.
