By Our Reporter
Motorists and pedestrians from Kampala and the Kawempe Division have welcomed new safety measures implemented by Bwaise Terminal under Kalocen Investments Limited, aimed at reducing road accidents and crime along Bombo Road.
The appreciation came during an activity organized in Bwaise, Kawempe Division, where Kalocen Investments, in partnership with other stakeholders, painted zebra crossings at key black spots for criminal gangs commonly known as Kifeesi groups. Residents and regular road users expressed their gratitude, noting that the absence of proper road signage had led to frequent accidents and made pedestrians vulnerable to attacks, particularly from Kifeesi groups.
“These zebra crossings are going to save lives,” said one pedestrian. “Before, motorists didn’t have any signs prompting them to stop for us, and that caused so many problems.”
While the majority praised the effort, some passersby—particularly those hurrying to churches and other venues—voiced frustration over the traffic jam caused by the roadworks. However, traffic police on site managed the situation effectively by diverting vehicles to alternative routes, ensuring that the freshly painted crossings would dry properly and not be washed away by rain.
The project specifically targeted areas where Kifeesi criminal groups had been operating—spots where unsuspecting pedestrians crossing to access taxis or boda bodas were frequently ambushed and robbed.
Moses Kyeyune Waswa, Head of Operations and Public Relations Manager at Bwaise Terminal, said the initiative was a joint effort with the Uganda Police and the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOF).
“We’ve been receiving several complaints from road users about over-speeding and rising insecurity,” Kyeyune said. “Some people have suffered permanent injuries, and others have lost their lives. These road safety measures are our response to that.”
Kyeyune also urged the government to strengthen road safety education, especially for motorists, to ensure they understand and respect road signs.
“Teaching drivers about road symbols will help create a culture of safety and respect for pedestrians,” he said.
He further encouraged the public to use only the officially gazetted taxi park in Kawempe—Bwaise Terminal—to avoid the dangers associated with illegal and unregulated parks, which are often hubs for criminals posing as taxi drivers.
Mazamir Ndibu, Chairman of Bwaise Terminal Taxi Park, applauded the management’s efforts in restoring order and safety at the park.
“Thanks to the leadership, we’ve removed troublemakers like Smart Rajab and Nsobya Ssemakadde,” Ndibu said. “Now the park is peaceful, well-organized, and everyone is benefiting.”
