Kampala’s bustling streets, long associated with congestion and chaos, are undergoing a transformation. Government agencies, city authorities, and development partners are joining forces to improve traffic management and strengthen road safety across Uganda’s capital.
Collaboration at the Core
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Uganda Police, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are leading the reforms. JICA has provided technical expertise, loans, and grants to support infrastructure development, education, health, and environmental initiatives.
“JICA offers technical support, loans, and grants mainly for infrastructure, education, health, and environmental projects,” explained Kasoma Meble, Program Officer at JICA Uganda.
Tackling Road User Behaviour
One of the biggest challenges is driver indiscipline. According to SP Oinebye Bruce Kamunanwire, Regional Traffic Officer for Kampala Metropolitan North, boda boda riders are often at the centre of road violations.
“The greatest challenge we face is indiscipline, particularly among boda bodas,” he noted. However, they have made progress by becoming more organised and establishing unions for better accountability.
Technology Takes the Lead
Uganda is adopting smarter systems to handle traffic congestion. A Traffic Moderator System will use real-time data to monitor flow and enforce rules.
“The system will enable us to coordinate effectively, monitor congestion, and reduce reliance on physical officers,” said SP Kamunanwire. “It will be integrated with ePS Auto and traffic lights for better enforcement.”
While cameras play a major role, human oversight remains vital. “Behind every camera, there’s a trained officer verifying traffic violations,” Kamunanwire stressed.
Sustainability and Support
Sustaining these projects requires ongoing government involvement. “Grant projects can only succeed with government support, especially for training, ownership, and protecting equipment from vandalism,” added Kasoma Meble of JICA Uganda.
Road safety advocates echo the call for cultural change. “Safe Way, Right Way is about building a culture of discipline and shared responsibility,” said Irene Namuyiga Musinguzi, General Manager of Safe Way, Right Way Uganda.
The Bigger Picture
For KCCA, the reforms are part of a long-term vision. “Traffic Management and Control is about regulating vehicles, pedestrians, and all road users to ensure efficiency and sustainability,” said Eng. Wasswa Joel, Manager of Traffic Management and Control at KCCA.
He emphasised the role of public awareness: “Our people need to be sensitised on how to use these junctions, as signals will guide every road user.”
Enforcement Remains Key
Despite the advancements, strict enforcement is still necessary. “Impunity and indiscipline are our biggest road safety challenges,” Kamunanwire said firmly. “Accidents don’t care about status; we must enforce the rules for everyone.”
