(Kampala) – Pedestrian safety on Ugandan roads has taken center stage as traffic police report a dramatic increase in fatalities, with more than 50% of crash related deaths in the week ending November 3, 2024, involving pedestrians. Police have also arrested 236 bodaboda riders in Kampala for riding without licenses as part of measures to address road safety violations.
Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, emphasized the urgency of the situation during a briefing on November 11, citing reckless driving, unsafe overtaking, and speeding as major contributors to road accidents.
A tragic incident on November 4 along the Bushenyi-Mbarara road illustrated the dangers. A Toyota Mark II lost control while avoiding a pothole, colliding with an oncoming Toyota Wish. Two people in the Mark II died instantly, while a third victim succumbed after being struck by a speeding Toyota Hiace. The crash injured seven others.
Another fatal accident occurred on November 9 at Milo 10 on the Isingiro-Mbarara road. A Sino truck rear-ended a motorcycle, dragging the rider and passenger to their deaths before the motorcycle caught fire. The truck driver fled the scene and remains at large.
The same day, in Kiwanga, Mukono district, a Subaru Forester attempted an ill fated overtaking maneuver, colliding with two motorcycles and an electric pole. The crash claimed the life of a police officer, who succumbed to injuries after being rushed to Mulago Referral Hospital.
Road Safety Statistics
The table below highlights recent road safety data:
| Week Ending | Pedestrian Fatalities | Bodaboda Arrests |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 3, 2024 | Over 50% of total deaths | 236 in Kampala |
Police have urged drivers and pedestrians alike to adhere to traffic rules to reduce these incidents. Key measures include maintaining safe speeds, avoiding reckless behavior, and ensuring vehicles and motorcycles are roadworthy.
Authorities stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility, calling on all road users to prioritize caution to prevent further tragedies.
