A union representing Kenyan long-distance truck drivers yesterday said it suspended the movement of trucks to Uganda until they are assured of their safety, citing COVID-19-related stigma and harassment.
The Union’s General Secretary Nicholas Mbugua spoke of unbearable humiliation drivers were subjected to it Uganda due to COVID-19 stigma.
Mbugua said if drivers continue going to Uganda before the COVID-19 stalemate is resolved, it will create a deeper crisis and endanger the lives of Kenyan drivers.
He called for suspension of all trips until the Kenyan Government negotiates with Uganda, saying that drivers are being coerced by Kenyan Authorities to cross Malaba border only for them to continue suffering.
“There is no safety agreement reached between the Government (Kenyan Government) and their Ugandan counterparts. Drivers are being coerced by Police officers to cross over to Uganda. We demand our lives’ safety,” said Mbugua.
In Uganda, truck drivers are banned from accessing lodgings and must only stop at designated points.
This decision was taken by the Government of Uganda in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country after the number of cases rapidly increased.
