The Express Penalty Scheme Automated (EPSAuto): How well do you know it?
April 27, 2025
The Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT) in Uganda has unveiled an innovative solution to enhance road safety and traffic management across the country. The Express Penalty Scheme Automated (EPSAuto) represents a significant technological advancement in Uganda’s transport sector as part of the broader Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS).
Modernizing Traffic Enforcement
EPSAuto stands as one of the most actively promoted modules under the ITMS framework. This cutting-edge system will play a critical role in the semi-automation of traffic violation detection, electronic fine issuance (e-fines), and revenue collection from penalties.
“This system marks a new era in our traffic management approach,” said a representative from the Ministry of Works and Transport. “By leveraging technology, we aim to create safer roads for all Ugandans while improving efficiency in our enforcement processes.”
How EPSAuto Works
The automated penalty system follows a streamlined three-step process:
- Precise Location Recording: The system accurately records the exact location where a traffic violation occurs.
- Vehicle Identification: EPSAuto captures images of the violating vehicle, specifically focusing on the number plate, from which it extracts the necessary details.
- Automated Processing: This vital information is then processed, and a fine is issued to the vehicle owner based on the registered details of the number plate.
This technological solution eliminates the need for physical interception of vehicles and the traditional manual issuance of tickets, significantly reducing opportunities for corruption while increasing efficiency.
Benefits to Citizens and Government
The implementation of EPSAuto brings numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Road Safety: By deterring traffic violations through consistent enforcement, the system aims to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety.
- Transparency: The automated system provides clear evidence of violations, reducing disputes and creating a more transparent penalty process.
- Efficiency: Electronic processing and notification streamline the entire enforcement process, saving time for both citizens and traffic authorities.
- Revenue Optimization: The system ensures that all penalties are properly recorded and collected, optimizing government revenue that can be reinvested in infrastructure development.
Public Education Phase
The Ministry is currently in the early stages of public and stakeholder sensitization before the full rollout of the system. This educational phase aims to ensure that all road users understand how the system works and the importance of adhering to traffic regulations.
“We believe that informed citizens make responsible road users,” stated the Ministry representative. “Our goal is not just to penalize violations but to create a culture of compliance and road safety consciousness.”
Accessing More Information
Citizens interested in learning more about the EPSAuto system can contact the ITMS team at +256 743 345 084 or visit the official portal at portal.itms.ug for detailed information.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has also made information available on their social media platforms, including their official X (formerly Twitter) account and collaboration with social media influencers, all under the umbrella of the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System.
Looking Ahead
As Uganda continues to modernize its infrastructure and services, the EPSAuto system represents an important step toward creating smarter cities and more efficient government systems. The initiative aligns with global best practices in traffic management and demonstrates Uganda’s commitment to leveraging technology for public service improvement.
The full implementation of EPSAuto is expected to significantly contribute to the government’s vision of safer roads, reduced traffic congestion, and a more disciplined driving culture across the nation.
Challenges to Address
While EPSAuto represents a significant advancement in traffic management, several infrastructural challenges may need to be addressed for the system to reach its full potential:
Vehicle Registration Gaps
A considerable number of vehicles on Ugandan roads operate without proper ownership documentation in the central database. This gap in the vehicle registration system could potentially hamper the effective delivery of penalties to actual vehicle owners.
For the system to function optimally, a comprehensive update of the vehicle registration database will be necessary, those familiar with Uganda’s road management systems know. “Ensuring that every vehicle has a clear ownership record is fundamental to the success of automated enforcement.”
Contact Information Limitations
The current system faces challenges in delivering traffic fines promptly to offenders due to the lack of a centralized, up-to-date registry of driver contact information. Without immediate notification methods, the deterrent effect of penalties could be diminished.
Recommendations for System Integration
For EPSAuto to achieve maximum effectiveness, the Ministry of Works and Transport and ITMS would benefit from developing:
- A modernized vehicle registration system with mandatory regular updates
- A centralized driver database with reliable contact information
- An integrated notification system utilizing SMS, email, and postal services
- Efficient public access portals where drivers can check for any outstanding penalties
These supporting systems would not only enhance the effectiveness of EPSAuto but would also contribute to the broader goals of creating a comprehensive traffic management ecosystem in Uganda.
This article is published by APT News as part of our coverage of technological advancements in public service delivery in Uganda.
We all run SCEAP, a multi-sectoral road safety initiative focused on preventing road accidents and creating patriotic road users. Its purpose and vision is to create a 360 road safety culture in Uganda through a systematic approach.