Addis Ababa Drafts Law to Lift Ban on Motorbikes

ADDIS ABEBA – The Addis Abeba transport bureau has drafted a regulation to resume the use of motorbikes in the capital.

A ban on motorbikes comes into force in Addis Ababa in a bid to curb crime, according to city officials.

The city’s mayor said criminals riding motorbikes often robbed people, before partially restricting motorbikes beginning July 7, 2019.

The draft regulation, which is tabled for discussion today, is aimed at lifting the ban, reported state-affiliated FBC.

According to the document, motorbike operators are required to form an association, get licenses from the bureau to resume works.

The regulation also prohibits the use of motorbikes with Oromia and Amhara number plates.
A motorbike is also required to have a GPS to operate in the capital city.

Motorbikes have become increasingly popular in Addis Ababa as a way of avoiding traffic jams, but are not as common as in many other African cities.

Similar bans have been in other places across Africa in a bid to end violent robberies and attacks.