Companies currently supplying the country with number plates have broken their silence about the current shortage.
A shortage of number plates hit the motor vehicle industry hurting, mostly dealers and sellers.
However, addressing journalists, GM Tumpeco and Arnold Brooklyn Company (ABC) Limited admitted the shortage but said a new shipment of number plates has been received to ensure steady supply .
"We wish to clarify that the supply of number plates has already resumed. Over the past 24 years, GM Tumpeco and ABC Limited have continuously delivered without shortages. We remain steadfast in our commitment to serving our clients with reliability and consistency," Elvis Ssekyanzi,the Executive Director of GM Tumpeco
Ssekyanzi explained that the temporary shortage of number plates was not a result of any internal inefficiencies but rather delays related to the anticipated rollout of new digital number plates by the government.
"The repeated postponement of the launch of digital number plates created uncertainty within the supply chain," Ssekyanzi stated.
"Our contracts with the Ministry of Works were intentionally short-term to align with the expected transition to the digital system. With the government extending the launch date multiple times, we received temporary permission to continue production. However, this short-term arrangement did not provide adequate time to replenish stocks."
Jyoti Puri, General Manager of ABC Limited, echoed Ssekyanzi's statements and emphasized the companies' ongoing collaboration with the government.
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"As a company, we have always worked closely with the Ministry of Works and Transport to ensure the continuous availability of number plates for Ugandans. We are confident in our ability to meet the demand once long-term contracts are secured," said Puri.
"It is important that we align production cycles with government timelines to avoid any supply disruptions. Our capability remains strong, and we are ready to provide uninterrupted service."
Puri also took the opportunity to reassure the public that ABC Limited remains committed to the highest standards of service delivery, reiterating the company's dedication to maintaining the trust of Ugandans.
"We assure the public that our commitment to quality and timely delivery is unwavering. We take great pride in being able to serve the nation, and we will continue to do so as we have for decades," Puri added.
They urged government to consider longer-term contracts if there remains uncertainty about the launch of the digital number plates, ensuring that all stakeholders can plan effectively and avoid future supply gaps.
This comes as government started rolling out digital number plates which are installed by Russian company.
