Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has recorded a 2% reduction in road traffic fatalities in 2024, according to its fourth Annual Road Safety Report.
The report shows that deaths fell from 411 in 2023 to 404 last year, lowering the death rate from 10.6 to 9.9 per 100,000 population.
While the decline is a step forward, the number of serious injuries rose by 12%, highlighting the need for continued and targeted interventions.
Vulnerable road users pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists accounted for 94% of all fatalities, with young men aged 20 to 29 most affected.
The report also identifies high-risk crash corridors along the Northern Bypass, Jinja Road, and Entebbe Road, where evidence-based safety measures are being prioritized.
Speaking at the launch, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago said, “While we note a decline in fatalities, the growing number of crashes and the disproportionate impact on our youth remain deeply concerning. We are committed to enforcing safer road behaviors and protecting vulnerable road users.”
In response, KCCA has launched a mass media campaign under the theme “Slow Down. It’s 30 for a Reason!” The initiative urges drivers to respect the 30 km/hr speed limit in urban and high-risk areas such as schools, hospitals, and markets.
Hajat Sharifah Buzeki, KCCA Executive Director, emphasized the campaign’s focus on children’s safety.
“Every child deserves a safe journey to and from school. Through this campaign and our Speed Management Plan, we aim to make Kampala’s streets safer for everyone, especially our children.”
The campaign, run in partnership with the Uganda Professional Drivers Network (UPDN) and supported by coordinated police enforcement, will air across television, radio, social media, and outdoor platforms, reinforced by community engagement efforts.
Omongo Ndugu, UPDN Executive Director, underscored the importance of adhering to the new speed regulations gazetted in February 2024, which reduced speed limits in built-up areas from 50 km/h to 30 km/h near schools and other areas with high pedestrian activity.
“This is not just a figure on a road sign. It is a life-saving rule that every professional driver must uphold. Slowing down near schools and pedestrian crossings is central to protecting children and other unprotected road users,” Ndugu said.
Anchored in data-driven policy and behavioral change communication, this dual approach reflects Kampala’s ongoing commitment to safer mobility for all residents.
