The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has called on all road users—including motorists, motorcyclists, passengers, and pedestrians—to exercise extra caution and prioritize safety during the Easter season.
Michael Kananura, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety spokesperson on April 17,2025 during an interview with the local station television emphasized that road safety is a shared responsibility and called for heightened vigilance to reduce accidents and fatalities commonly seen during festive periods.
“While we recognize Easter as a period of joy and reflection, we also acknowledge that it is one of the busiest times on our roads. Increased travel often results in higher traffic volumes and a greater risk of crashes with the likelihood of losing or injuring lives due to avoidable crashes,” Kananura said.
According to Kananura Motorists and Motorcyclists should Adherence to speed limits, avoidance of drunk driving, and avoid from distractions such as mobile phone use while driving.
Motorcyclists are required to wear and fasten standard helmets and reflector jackets, carry only one passenger, and avoid overloading.
Kananura also stated that Passengers should use safe and reliable transport, while pedestrians are urged to use designated crossings and remain alert, especially near schools and busy roads.
He also urged that, Children under 12 should not ride motorcycles without supervision, saying that helmets should be worn by cyclists and motorcyclists alike Special Attention to School Zones.
He urged that drivers must slow down near schools, observe the 30 km/h speed limit in school zones, and watch out for children crossing roads.
School administrations were encouraged to educate students on road safety and designate safe crossing points.
He warned drivers to avoid unsafe overtaking, overloading vehicles, and driving through flooded roads.
According to Kanaura,the Directorate has also intensified enforcement of these regulations, with penalties including imprisonment for non-compliance under the Traffic and Road Safety Act.
Kananura also highlighted ongoing road safety campaigns, especially in schools raising awareness among children to reduce the high number of pedestrian fatalities.
He called on all stakeholders, motorists, parents, school administrators, and students to work together to create a safer road environment.
These measures come against a backdrop of increased road traffic crashes in Uganda, with speeding and careless overtaking being major contributors. The Directorate continues to urge the public to remain vigilant, plan journeys carefully, and respect all traffic regulations to ensure a safe festive season.
