In a bright move towards a more sustainable and people-friendly city, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is celebrating a Car-Free Day, closing off major streets to vehicular traffic and opening them up to pedestrians, cyclists, and revelers.
The event started off early Saturday morning, September 7, 2024,2024 and aims at promoting eco-friendly transportation, community engagement, and a healthier lifestyle.
According to the Executive Director of KCCA, Dorothy Kisaka, Kampala continues to grow and urbanize, and events like Car-Free Day serve as a reminder of the importance of balancing development with sustainability and community well-being.
It creates a city that is not only economically thriving but also environmentally conscious and socially vibrant.
“Today, we reclaim our streets and rediscover the joy of community. Let us strive to make Kampala a city that is friendly to all, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transport,” Kisaka said.
According to an eyewitness, not even police officers in uniform are allowed to drive through the closed roads.
“I was shocked to see an officer in full uniform told to divert and use the given roads even as he pleaded to have the barriers moved so that he could access Central Police Station (CPS),” the eyewitness said.
As the city woke up to a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, free from the usual noisy horns and engines, residents and visitors alike flocked to the car-free zones. The streets were filled with laughter and chatter as people of all ages walked, jogged, cycled, or simply sat and enjoyed the sights and sounds.
KCCA’s initiative is part of a global movement to reduce carbon emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, and create more livable cities. By dedicating a day to alternative modes of transport, Kampala joined ranks with cities like New York, London, and Tokyo, showcasing its commitment to a greener future.
The event is featuring various activities like street exercises, dance classes, bicycle lessons, street art and painting, exhibitions, food trucks and muchomo, music dance and drama, bicycle races, and walking races.
The car-free roads include Nile Avenue (ffrom subway/UBC),, Speke Road, Shimoni (between Grand Imperial and Bank of Uganda), Construction Square, and Buganda Road (stopping at Kyaggwe Road).
