The New Bajaj Rotation System

The New Bajaj Rotation System is a recently introduced policy in Mogadishu, and governs the registration and operation of tuk-tuks (three-wheeled passenger motorcycles commonly known as “bajajs”).^{1 2}
As a popular mode of public transport in the city, this regulation envisions “alleviating urban mobility challenges, improving security, and streamlining the rotational operation of bajajs”.³

The introduction of this new regulation and rotation system responds to several challenges of urban mobility in Mogadishu. These challenges include a sharp rise in the number of bajajs on the road, persistent traffic congestion, and inadequate infrastructure.⁴ While bajajs have improved access to transport, they have also been associated with criminal activities, such as murders, robberies, smuggling, and the distribution of weapons and drugs across the city.⁵

The rotation system was designed to mitigate these issues. It aims to regulate the number of bajajs in operation at any time and establish a comprehensive database of all vehicles. This will not only ease traffic but also improve security by allowing authorities to track and monitor bajas owners and operators.⁶

The new directive encompasses the following key measures:⁷

• Bajajs Categorization: Bajajs are divided into two categories identified by color and label: yellow labeled “A” and blue labeled “B.”
• Re-registration Process: All existing bajajs are required to undergo re-registration, to ensure proper documentation and tracking.
• Suspension of imports: The government has temporarily suspended the importation of bajajs and two-wheeled motorbikes, focusing particularly on the ports serving Mogadishu.

The Benadir Regional Administration (BRA) successfully registered and labeled over 33,000 bajajs within a two-month period. Implemented in late May 2023, the new regulation has significantly reduced the number of bajajs operating daily on the roads, alleviating some traffic congestion. Additionally, the regulation extends to bajajs traveling between Mogadishu and neighboring districts such as Balcad and Afgoye in Hirshabelle and Southwest States.⁸

The new regulation includes strict enforcement measures and penalties to ensure compliance, maintain traffic control, and enhance city safety:⁹

• Bajajs that are not registered or labeled correctly face a $100 fine.
• Bajajs operating on unauthorized days will incur the same fine.
• Bajajs with self-made labels or those bypassing official registration will be seized and handed over to security forces.

The bajaj rotation system has resulted in significant improvements to city mobility by reducing the number of bajajs operating on specific days, effectively alleviating traffic congestion. Moreover, the system has strengthened the city’s security and stability by enabling the government to maintain a comprehensive record of bajaj owners and drivers, which aids in the identification and tracking of individuals involved in security incidents where bajajs are implicated.¹⁰

Additionally, the re-registration process has brought several significant benefits:¹¹

• Comprehensive Database: The personal details of bajaj owners and drivers, along with the plate numbers, have been recorded, creating a centralized database managed by the Mogadishu Municipality. This ensures that all bajajs operating on Mogadishu roads are accounted for.
• Revenue Generation: The process has generated additional income for the Benadir Regional Administration (BRA) through re-registration fees. It has also been integrated into the BRA’s broader revenue generation system to improve tax compliance.
• Streamlined Ownership Transfers: The creation of a bajaj database has established a formal mechanism for ownership transfers. When a bajaj is sold, both the seller and buyer must register the transaction with the Mogadishu Municipality, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records.

Implemented by the Benadir Regional Administration (BRA) and supported by the Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS),¹² the new regulation officially came into effect in late May 2023.¹³