The Police Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has rolled out new safety measures aimed at protecting students and pedestrians on the roads.
Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura emphasized the importance of caution, patience, and adherence to traffic rules, with a particular focus on safeguarding students as they head back to class. He also warned Boda Boda riders against carrying more than two children on motorcycles, vowing to arrest violators in a bid to curb reckless behavior on the roads.
With the reopening of schools for the third term, the Police Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has introduced a set of stringent road safety guidelines designed to protect students on their daily commutes. Speaking during a press briefing, Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura called on all road users to exercise extra caution, particularly during peak school hours.
He urged drivers to follow speed limits, adhere to pedestrian crossings, and avoid any form of reckless driving that might endanger the lives of students and pedestrians.
Kananura particularly warned Boda Boda riders—who are frequently used for transporting school children—against carrying more than two children at a time. He noted that the police have observed a growing number of motorcycle riders overcrowding their passengers, creating a significant risk for accidents.
“It is unacceptable and illegal to see riders carrying more than two children on a motorcycle. We will arrest and penalize anyone found violating this guideline,” Kananura stated firmly.
He also called on parents to ensure that their children use safe modes of transportation to and from school. “We are appealing to all parents to take road safety seriously. Talk to your children about crossing the road at designated points and make sure the mode of transport they use is safe,” Kananura added.
Kananura stressed the importance of patience, reminding drivers to allow students and pedestrians sufficient time to cross roads safely, especially during rush hour.
“Children are among the most vulnerable road users, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety. Drivers should be patient and give them the right of way,” he emphasized.
The police are set to increase their presence near schools, with traffic officers being deployed at busy intersections to monitor road conditions and enforce the new guidelines. Road safety campaigns have also been launched to educate both students and parents about safe road practices.
This announcement comes as part of a broader effort by the government to reduce the high number of road accidents in Uganda, many of which involve school children. According to police statistics, road accidents have been on the rise in the past few years, with children and young pedestrians often falling victim.
While these guidelines are expected to improve road safety around schools, there is also concern about the enforcement of these rules. In the past, there have been instances where traffic regulations were implemented, but poor enforcement led to little change in road user behavior. However, Kananura assured the public that this time, enforcement would be strict, with fines and penalties awaiting those who flout the new guidelines.
“We are committed to ensuring that these guidelines are followed to the letter. Our officers will be on the ground to enforce these measures, and violators will face the law,” Kananura said.
As schools open for the new term, parents, students, and motorists alike will be watching closely to see if these new safety measures will indeed make the roads safer for Uganda’s young learners.
