Uganda redcross launches road safety initiative to reduce accidents

4 March 2025, 5:08 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

The Uganda redcross in partnership with Prudential Uganda and Government, has launched the third phase of its road safety initiative. The program aims to reduce road accidents and fatalities by 50% by 2030.

Speaking at the launch, General Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister for Works and Transport, emphasised that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. “We must work together to reduce the number of accidents on our roads,” he said.

During the launch, General Katumba also called on road users, particularly Boda Boda riders, to wear helmets and reflective jackets. “Wearing helmets and reflective jackets can significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of an accident,” he said.

Furthermore, General Katumba challenged Boda Boda leaders to take a strong stance against drug and alcohol abuse among riders. “Sometimes you jump into a Boda and you find a rider smelling of alcohol or drugs,” he said. “This is unacceptable and puts not only the rider’s life at risk but also the lives of passengers and other road users.”

Superintendent of Police Kananura Michael, the traffic and road safety communications officer, highlighted the reckless behavior of some Boda Boda riders. “You find a Boda Boda rider carrying three passengers, and sometimes even a fourth,” he said. “This is not acceptable. How can such a person control the ride in case of an emergency?”

Kananura also pointed out the misuse of traffic controls, such as traffic lights, where riders dodge them and also evade traffic officers. “This kind of behavior puts everyone at risk and must be addressed,” he said.

Robert Kwesiga, Secretary-General of the Uganda Red Cross, noted that the training will be held in four major locations: Kampala Metropolitan, Arua, Masaka, and Mbarara. The training is expected to last between 8 to 10 months. Kwesiga also appreciated Prudential for being a sustainable partner, which has improved road safety in Uganda.

The Uganda redcross and Prudential had already trained over 16,000 Boda Boda riders and other road users in road safety and first aid in phase 1 and 2. This phase 3 will target an additional 60,500 people, including bus drivers, roadside traders, and police officers.

Tetteh Ayitevie, CEO of Prudential Uganda, who has had numerous visits to Uganda over the years, particularly in Kampala, was inspired to initiate this project after witnessing the city’s chaotic traffic conditions and reckless driving. He sought to partner with the Uganda Red Cross to provide training and support to road users.

“We have invested over $5,000 in this project over the past two years, and we are committed to continuing our support,” he said.

Kananura reported that Uganda lost 5,144 people in road accidents in 2024, with 2,396 of those fatalities related to Boda Boda accidents. He added that Boda Boda riders contribute to a staggering 53% of road crashes in the country.

The traffic police department is also currently promoting awareness in schools targeting young people on road safety. “We want to teach children about road safety from a young age, so they can grow up to be responsible road users,” said Kananura.

The Uganda Red Cross will provide training and support to traffic officers and other first responders.

The government has also announced plans to launch safety zones for schools, worship areas, and other high-risk areas.

General Katumba also challenged corporate companies to support the initiative. “MTN, it’s your customers who die on our roads. Why can’t you donate an ambulance to the Red Cross?” he asked.