Renowned road safety advocate Joseph Beyanga, popularly known as Joe Walker, has embarked on a 340-kilometer walk from Kampala to Gulu to raise awareness about road safety and responsible road use.
The 10-day initiative, flagged off at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala by State Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama, brings together activists from various government and non-government agencies.
Their mission is to curb rising road crashes in Uganda by encouraging safe driving practices and discouraging reckless behaviors that cause fatalities and life-altering injuries.
Beyanga emphasized that the walk is more than just a journey, but a movement for change.
He highlighted Uganda’s alarming road crash statistics, with 14 people losing their lives daily due to speeding, reckless driving, and distractions. He urged all road users to take personal responsibility in making roads safer.
“Our roads may have challenges, but we must focus on our own behavior. If drivers stay attentive, avoid distractions like mobile phones, and drive cautiously, we can prevent unnecessary deaths,” he said.
Minister Byamukama praised the initiative, stressing that road safety is a shared responsibility among all road users, including pedestrians.
“Together, we must champion safe practices, enforce regulations and promote awareness to prevent accidents and save lives,” minister said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing road safety measures and ensuring adherence to speed limits.
“As Government, we remain steadfast in our commitment to collaborating with stakeholders like you to make our roads safer for all.” He said.
The walk will cover key towns including Bombo, Luwero, Nakasongola, Migyera, Kafu, Kigumba, Bweyale, Kamdini, Bobi, and Gulu. Along the way, the activists will engage with communities, spreading road safety awareness and advocating for responsible road use.
The journey began at 6:00 AM, with the first stop in Bombo, marking the start of a nationwide push to make Uganda’s roads safer.
