Uganda’s efforts to reduce road accidents through early education have received a major boost following the conclusion of the “Safe Kids, Safe Future” road safety sensitisation campaign, which reached more than 4,000 pupils across the country.
The campaign, implemented by the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS) in partnership with the Uganda Police Force Traffic Directorate, the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), concluded with a final activation at Kibuye Primary School in Kampala after similar engagements in Mbale, Fort Portal, Mbarara and other districts.
Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson said the collaboration between police and ITMS has significantly improved road safety awareness among school children.
“Our collaboration with the Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS) in ongoing road safety campaigns is beginning to yield positive results. Through this initiative, we have reached more than 4,000 pupils, and we believe they have gained valuable knowledge on road safety,” he said.
He noted that pupils were trained on proper road use, including how to walk safely, observe traffic rules, and cross roads correctly. Learners were also provided with safety materials such as helmets and reflective jackets to improve visibility and reduce accident risks.
“These are particularly important because many parents often neglect the use of crash helmets for their children. The reflective gear is meant to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents involving children on the roads,” he added.
Kananura said the partnership has strengthened police outreach programmes by expanding their reach and deepening engagement in schools across the country.
“We acknowledge that as police alone, we cannot reach the entire country. However, with ITMS on board, we have been able to extend our reach and plan to engage even more schools going forward,” he said.
He emphasised that most road crashes are caused by behaviour, making early education essential in preventing future accidents.
“Most road crashes are linked to behaviour, and we believe that shaping responsible behaviour from childhood can make a significant difference in reducing accidents in the future,” he said.
At the final event, KCCA spokesperson Daniel Nuwabine described the initiative as timely and necessary in protecting children exposed to daily road risks.
“Our children face daily risks on the roads, and equipping them with knowledge is one of the strongest protections we can offer,” he said.
ITMS PR Consultant Steven Turyarugayo said the campaign focuses on building lifelong awareness among children.
“Road safety begins with awareness. When children understand how to use the road safely, they not only protect themselves but also influence their communities,” he noted.
Over the three-month campaign, officials conducted interactive training sessions covering pedestrian discipline, zebra crossing use, traffic sign interpretation, and dangers of speeding and reckless driving.
Authorities also urged parents, teachers, and school administrators to reinforce road safety awareness, noting that children remain among the most vulnerable road users due to their age and behaviour.
Officials further encouraged schools to establish road safety clubs and integrate messages such as “Speed kills,” “Avoid careless overtaking,” and “Crash helmets save lives” into daily learning environments.
The campaign organisers said the initiative aims to embed road safety education in schools and build a generation of responsible road users across Uganda.
