UTOF Chairman urges drivers, parents to prioritise safety ahead of festive season

30 November 2025, 11:34 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

In an effort to reduce preventable road accidents on 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 collect them, 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 complete your work and only then take alcohol. If you are caught driving under the influence, you will face severe consequences,” Ssekindi said.

He also cautioned drivers against changing their usual routes simply 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? This is one 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 the guidelines.

“As a federation, we have tried, and we are still trying. If passengers are going to Lira and you do not operate on that route, get a driver who knows it. Long distances require someone familiar with the road, and the vehicle must be in excellent condition,” he said.

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

With the festive season approaching, Ssekindi revealed that the federation will soon resume operations to remove poorly maintained taxis from the roads. Sensitisation will come first, followed by full enforcement 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 target 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 operate vehicles without checking their mechanical condition. Some people think servicing a vehicle is only for the wealthy, but it is necessary for anyone who drives. It is affordable and essential if we are to avoid unnecessary accidents,” he said.