Uganda’s Transport Minister Warns Against Reckless Driving as Road Accidents Surge.
KAMPALA – The Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, has raised concerns over the increasing number of fatal road accidents in Uganda, urging immediate action before the end of July this year.
Speaking at the Media Centre in Kampala, the minister revealed that the government is finalising plans to phase out old and unsafe vehicles, particularly passenger buses, taxis, and boda-bodas, to improve road safety. He emphasised that July will mark a major crackdown.
Government’s Road Safety Measures
Byamukama stated that the government has allocated funds to train drivers in accident-prone areas, ensuring they acquire proper skills to prevent further loss of lives.
The minister also announced that the government is investigating YY Bus Company over operational inefficiencies. He assured the public that a detailed explanation would be provided soon regarding the government’s intervention.
Recent police reports indicate a sharp rise in road accidents since the beginning of the year. In 2024 alone, 5,144 people have died, while over 10,000 others have sustained severe injuries, with some left permanently disabled.
Byamukama dismissed rumours circulating on social media claiming that the flyover roads are in critical condition, mostly the BUSEGA flyover, and on behalf of the government, Minister Byamukama has called it false information. But he emphasised has a mandate to keep Uganda safe, even if it needs to ban all buses in Uganda to avoid high levels of accidents led by buses, it will do it. He warned those spreading false information, stating that they are playing with fire ahead of the 2026 elections.
The minister attributed most accidents to reckless driving, including drunk driving, speeding, and distracted driving. He urged Ugandans to support the NRM government’s efforts in improving road infrastructure and safety.
Byamukama further warned contractors responsible for road construction to deliver quality work or face penalties. The government will not tolerate substandard projects, and those failing to meet standards will be replaced.
