The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in partnership with the Uganda Professional Drivers Network (UPDN), has launched a citywide speed mass media campaign titled “They are speed limits for a reason.” The campaign was officially announced by the Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago during the 4th Annual Professional Drivers Conference and Road Transport Stakeholders Excellence Awards.
The launch comes at a crucial moment as Kampala enters the festive season, a period marked by increased travel and a higher likelihood of speed related crashes. According to the Annual Crime Report 2024, December recorded the highest number of road crashes nationwide, with 2,445 crashes, making it the most dangerous month on Uganda’s roads.
In his remarks, the Lord Mayor noted that as mobility and travel surge during the festive season, the risk of road traffic injuries increases significantly.
“As we move into the holiday season, travel intensifies and the risk on our roads increases. This campaign is a timely reminder that speed limits exist to protect lives. I call upon every driver to slow down and help us reduce preventable injuries and deaths,” he said.
KCCA has worked closely with the Uganda Police Force to ensure that the public messaging is strongly supported by enforcement measures. This approach aims to deter dangerous driving through both awareness and visible action on the roads.
The UPDN Executive Director, Ndugu Omongo, noted that professional drivers carry a significant responsibility during periods of high travel. He stressed that responsible driving practices protect not only drivers but also passengers, pedestrians and other road users. He welcomed the campaign as a reinforcement of the discipline and vigilance needed to keep communities safe.
The campaign will run throughout December and will include television ads, radio, targeted digital outreach PSV advertising,community sensitization coordinated through UPDN networks and will be supported by enforcement
The Lord Mayor concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective action in reducing road trauma.
“Road safety requires the effort of every stakeholder. I thank UPDN and our wider network of international partners for their continued support in making Kampala’s roads safer. Together, we can protect lives during this festive season and beyond,” he said.
