Interior ministry launches logbook registration, driver licensing in Eastern Equatoria

JUBA – The ministry of interior, in partnership with Great City Company, on Monday officially launched the issuance of motorcycle and vehicle logbooks and driving licenses in Torit, the capital of Eastern Equatoria state.

This initiative eliminates the need for drivers and riders to travel to Juba for essential paperwork, marking a step towards streamlined services.

“Eastern Equatoria is the third state in South Sudan to offer these services at the state level,” said Colonel Leonard Peter John, acting director for traffic in Eastern Equatoria.

Logbooks and licenses for motorcycles cost up to 70,000 South Sudanese pounds (SSP), while those for vehicles reach 90,000 SSP.

However, John highlighted challenges faced by the traffic department, including a lack of personnel (only 180 officers to serve a million people) and insufficient vehicles and motorbikes to respond to crimes along highways.

“Traffic police will always work to ensure peace and prevent accidents on the roads,” he affirmed.

Bosco Juma Daniel, director-general for logistics and supply at Great City Company, urged motorcycle taxi associations (known as “Boda-boda”) to comply with the law and obtain licenses and logbooks. He also pledged to employ local residents while bringing technical expertise from Juba.

Francis Oting Otee, secretary for the drivers’ union in Eastern Equatoria, welcomed the initiative but criticized the numerous, often undocumented, charges levied by various security sectors on drivers along the Torit-Juba route.

He reiterated the need for government-provided vehicles for traffic police to respond to accidents swiftly.

Mary Alphonse Lodira, deputy governor of Eastern Equatoria, commended the national government and Great City Company for prioritizing the state.

She urged vehicle and motorcycle owners to obtain the necessary documentation for safety and organization, while warning against unauthorized collections of money from drivers.

This launch signifies progress in streamlining vehicle registration and tackling traffic challenges in Eastern Equatoria but highlights the need for continued efforts in addressing personnel shortages, resource limitations, and concerns over unofficial fees.