UTOF boss urges drivers and parents to prioritise safety as festive season nears

30 November 2025, 11:34 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

In an effort to reduce preventable road accidents across major highways, the Chairman of the Federation of Uganda Taxi Operators (UTOF), Rashid Ssekindi, has outlined a series of measures aimed at ensuring safer travel during this busy period.

Speaking to reporters at the federation’s headquarters in Kampala, Ssekindi appealed to both drivers and parents to take road safety seriously, noting that many crashes are avoidable.

He urged parents with children in boarding schools to personally pick them up, warning that allowing strangers or unauthorised individuals to transport learners exposes them to fraudsters and other risks.

“I urge all drivers, especially taxi drivers, to be vigilant on the road. Why would you drink and drive when you know the consequences? If you drink, first work and then go and take your alcohol. If you are caught driving under the influence, you will face it rough,” Ssekindi said.

He also cautioned drivers against changing their usual routes just because they have been offered special trips, explaining that unfamiliarity with the road is a major contributor to accidents.

“Drivers, please do not change routes. If you are used to Hoima Road, why take Masaka Road because of a gig? These are some of the reasons accidents increase during this season,” he added.

Ssekindi noted that although UTOF has introduced several measures to curb reckless behaviour, some drivers continue to ignore guidelines.

“As the federation, we have tried and we are still trying. If passengers are going to Lira and you don’t operate on that route, get a driver who knows it. Long distances require someone who understands that road, and the vehicle must be in very good condition,” he said.

He also advised drivers of Sinotruks, bodabodas and other heavy vehicles to exercise patience and respect other road users.

With the festive season approaching, Ssekindi revealed that the federation will soon resume operations to rid the roads of taxis in poor condition. Sensitisation will come first, followed by full operations in 2026 after the election period.

Meanwhile, he urged learners travelling home to avoid accepting food from strangers during taxi journeys, warning that criminals often take advantage of unsuspecting passengers.

The Director of Ba Muyanja J Auto Garage, Muyanja Julius, also appealed to motorists to embrace regular vehicle servicing to prevent avoidable incidents.

“As a specialist in brake maintenance, I urge all drivers not to drive vehicles without confirming their mechanical condition. People think servicing a vehicle is for the rich, but it is for anyone who sits behind the wheel. It is affordable and necessary if we are to avoid unnecessary accidents,” he said.