Douala: QR Codes for Moto-Taxis 🏍️

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The Douala City Hall has launched a digital platform to regulate and professionalize the moto-taxi sector. With the mandatory registration of drivers and a QR code system, this initiative aims to improve safety and combat disorder in the city.

A Digital Solution for a Key Sector 💻

Since July 11, 2024, Douala’s digital platform allows moto-taxi drivers to register and obtain a unique QR code, printed on their vest. This code offers passengers the ability to identify their driver, rate their driving, or report infractions via the app.

The system works through the following steps:

• Drivers register on the platform, providing their personal information.
• After their registration is validated, a unique QR code is generated and printed on their vest.
• When a passenger boards, they can scan the QR code with their smartphone, accessing basic information about the driver, such as their name, registration number, and previous ratings.
• At the end of the ride, the passenger can rate the driver’s performance and report any violations directly through the app.
• In case of an accident, the QR code helps identify the driver, enhancing user safety.

Professionalization and Road Safety 🚦

The city imposed a registration deadline of September 15, 2024. After this date, only drivers registered on the platform and wearing the regulatory vest can continue to operate. This initiative marks a new step in the professionalization of the city’s 80,000 drivers. The project, carried out in collaboration with moto-taxi unions, aims to encourage road code compliance and driver responsibility.

Fighting Insecurity and Informality 🔒

Launched in 2021, the project addresses two major issues:

• Insecurity caused by malicious individuals infiltrating the sector.
• Urban disorder caused by a largely informal activity.

Additionally, the new regulation seeks to restore order in Douala’s streets while filtering out unqualified drivers. A specific vest color is set for each district to identify its moto-taxis.

A Big-Budget Project 💰

With a budget of approximately 2 billion CFA francs, this operation is funded by the state and development partners. These funds have been used to build parking areas for moto-taxis, produce road signs, and train drivers. The goal is not only to professionalize the sector but also to create a safer, more orderly environment for all road users.

Drivers Speak Out 🗣️

Reached by phone on October 23, 2024, moto-taxi drivers in Douala have mixed reactions to the initiative. Some welcome the QR code system, believing it will improve their profession’s image and enhance passenger safety.

« It’s a good initiative because Douala has a bad reputation. With the QR code, passengers can identify us, which reassures them. This could reduce irresponsible behavior, » said Jean-Pierre, a moto-taxi driver for five years.

Patrick, a young moto-taxi driver, adds: « Thanks to this system, we finally have a chance to be recognized as professionals, not just amateurs. »

However, other drivers have concerns about the platform’s implementation. Samuel, a moto-taxi driver in Douala, shared his worries:

« I’m afraid that the registration and vest costs will be too high for us. Many drivers won’t be able to afford it. »

These reactions highlight the ongoing debate around the new regulations and emphasize the need for clear communication and support for drivers to ensure a sustainable transition toward professionalization.

Your Opinion Matters !!
What do you think about using QR codes to improve moto-taxi safety in Douala?