Advocating for Safer Roads Across Uganda through Empowering Communities
In the wake of a sobering reality, Uganda finds itself grappling with a stark and unsettling truth: road fatalities are on the rise. The year 2023 bore witness to a staggering 30% surge in such tragedies, sending shockwaves through communities across the nation.
Behind these shocking statistics lies a distressing narrative of loss, with an average of 10 to 15 lives cruelly snatched away by road crashes each day. Reckless driving, a dangerous threat that continues to haunt Uganda’s roads with ruthless impunity.
Recently, our team embarked on a journey spanning the bustling cities of Mbarara, Hoima, and Gulu, advocating for safer road practices. At the forefront of this noble endeavor stood Miss Judith Karara, a distinguished Road Transport Officer from the Ministry of Works and Transport. Together, we engaged in a series of impactful activities aimed at instilling a culture of responsibility and adherence to road regulations, particularly among the vital community of boda riders.
During our pivotal stakeholder meetings with esteemed city leaders, Mr. Cuthbert Isingoma enthusiastically advocated for the crucial use of seatbelts, highlighting their indisputable role in safeguarding lives on Uganda’s roads. Joining the chorus of voices, Ms. Judith Karara, the esteemed Road Safety Officer of the Ministry of Works and Transport, shed light on the formation of road committees, poised to bolster the implementation of safety measures.
Furthermore, Mr. Fred Tumwine, our steadfast Executive Director, eloquently underscored URRENO’s forthcoming advocacy initiatives, showcasing our unwavering commitment to fostering a safer road environment through collaborative action and tireless dedication.
In each city we visited, the heart of our mission beat with purpose as we engaged directly with boda riders. Through informative sessions and hands-on demonstrations, we emphasized the critical importance of wearing helmets, a simple yet often overlooked precaution that can mean the difference between life and death on our roads.
Furthermore, we underscored the significance of adhering to road regulations and equipping vehicles with reflectors, essential elements for enhancing visibility and preventing accidents, especially during low-light conditions. These efforts were met with a receptive audience eager to embrace safer practices and contribute to the collective goal of reducing road-related incidents.
Venturing into the realm of education, our mission to champion road safety reached new heights as we engaged with eager young minds in schools across Uganda. From the corridors of Kabateline International School to the bustling classrooms of Hoima Primary School and Gulu Primary School, the enthusiasm and receptiveness of the pupils were nothing short of inspiring.
It was a testament to the power of knowledge and the importance of instilling road safety awareness from a young age.
As we reflect on our journey advocating for road safety across Uganda, we are heartened by the positive response and tangible impact witnessed in each city visited. Through collaborative initiatives and unwavering dedication, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safer and more responsible road culture.
