Ahead of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G-77 plus China summits set to commence today, police authorities have issued warnings of anticipated traffic disruptions in Kampala. Travellers in and around the city are advised to plan their journeys carefully due to designated roads for delegate use and the relocation of more than 246 boda boda stages.
Traffic guidelines from the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety indicate specific restrictions for motorcycles on key routes, including the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway to Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala-Entebbe Expressway to Northern Bypass to Binaisa Road through Mulago Roundabout to Yusuf Lule Road and Nile Avenue. These routes will experience diverted and disrupted traffic as needed.
Mr. Daniel Nuwabine, the head of information on the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) task force overseeing summit preparations, explained that relocating boda boda stages aims to reduce congestion, enhance security and safety, and improve street visibility for pedestrians and motorists. Many boda boda stages were obstructing pedestrian ways and motorist turns, prompting a multi-stakeholder approach involving boda boda leadership, the Uganda Police Force, and political leadership.
In Central Division, over 48 stages were removed from various locations, while Makindye Division saw the removal of 198 stages on different roads. The authorities emphasized that the relocation is temporary, designed to accommodate the summit period, and has engaged relevant stakeholders for an inclusive plan for boda boda operations.
Despite the assurances, concerns were raised by transportation operators, including boda boda and taxi representatives, about potential inconveniences and increased operational costs due to diversions and longer routes.
