Road safety experts have highlighted the deteriorating state of Uganda’s road infrastructure as a key contributor to the increasing number of accidents across the country. Poorly maintained roads with potholes, inadequate markings, insufficient signage, and narrow carriageways are creating hazardous driving conditions, exacerbated further during the rainy season due to poor drainage systems.
This infrastructure deficit, coupled with reckless driving and weak enforcement of road safety laws, has led to a public safety crisis. According to Uganda Police statistics, road accidents claimed 2,347 lives and left 8,127 people seriously injured between January and June this year. A 2023 report revealed a 16% rise in crashes, with fatalities increasing to 4,179 from 20,394 in 2022.
Joseph Beyanga, founder of the Joe Walker Remembrance Walk, underscored the urgency of upgrading road infrastructure.
“Without pedestrian walkways and bicycle lanes, vulnerable road users are forced to share space with vehicles, increasing the likelihood of accidents,” he said.
He also pointed out that the overwhelming number of motorcycles, particularly boda bodas, further strains road infrastructure.
The issue is compounded by the rapid urban population growth and rising vehicle ownership. Road safety expert David Isiko explained that many roads, built decades ago, are ill-equipped to handle current traffic levels. This has led to congestion and frequent accidents, which not only overwhelm hospitals but also drain national resources. The Ministry of Health estimates that Uganda spends UGX 283 million daily treating road crash victims.
Human error remains a major cause of accidents, with police attributing 90% of crashes to speeding, careless overtaking, and distracted driving. Commercial vehicles such as boda bodas and taxis significantly contribute to these statistics, as drivers often prioritize speed over safety.
The Director of Traffic and Road Safety, Afande Michael Kananura, emphasized the need for stricter enforcement, citing challenges such as limited manpower, inadequate monitoring equipment, and corruption within the enforcement system.
Experts agree that a multi-pronged approach is necessary to curb the crisis. This includes prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and promoting behavioral change among road users. Researcher Racheal Namundu noted, “We need a shift in attitude from all road users—pedestrians, motorists, and even traffic officers.”
As the festive season approaches, the Ministry of Works and Transport has issued warnings, urging Ugandans to exercise caution. In 2023, motorcycles and pedestrians accounted for 64% of road traffic fatalities, further emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to protect vulnerable road users.
