When Smart Cities Turn Menacing by Wairagala Wakabi

Uganda has embraced digital surveillance tools in the name of improving public security and fighting terrorism, a pattern repeated in several African countries. But governments are increasingly using the technology for political control, rather than for national security.

KAMPALA—In June 2025, Uganda will activate the Automatic Express Penalty System (EPSAuto), using CCTV cameras, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), and intelligent transport monitoring system (ITMS) for good motorists. But the system, intended to regulate the country’s chaotic roads, quickly created controversy.