Bicycle mechanics register boom in number of clients

Kampala, Uganda |  THE INDEPENDENT |  Bicycle mechanics are experiencing a boom in the number of people seeking their services and spare parts because of the ban on public transport.

President, Yoweri Museveni banned both public and private transport with the exception of emergency and cargo vehicles as part of the prevention measures against Covid-19.

He urged Ugandans that where it is inevitable, they can use bicycles or walk as the alternative means of reaching their different destinations in their locality.

This has forced many Ugandans to resort to bicycles to run their errands. Apparently, this has created a boom in business for bicycle dealers and mechanics across the country.

Rodgers Mukulawazi is the proprietor, Mukulawazi Babu Auto spares garage in Kisenyi 2 Kamwokya. He describes the transport ban as a blessing to bicycle spare parts dealers and mechanics.

According to him, there is increased demand for bicycles parts and repair services but most of their suppliers closed their shops because of the presidential directives.

Arnold Muhumuza, a bicycle mechanic in Kyebando, a Kampala suburb, says he receives many clients in need of spare parts because some of them had kept their bicycles for long for long without use and have pulled them out because of the transport ban.

He however, says finding spare parts is very hard since most dealers have closed their shops because of the Covid19 lock down.

Nelson Atuhaire, another mechanic, says even those with spare find it had to replace what they have sold since the suppliers are not operating.       

Sharif Twesigye, a bicycle mechanic says the number of his clients has increased.

Arafat Kimbowa a bicycle user told URN that his bike has spent four days in the garage due to difficulties of finding spare parts.

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URN