The Wakiso District Traffic Officer, ASP Charlotte Ndyahabwe, has urged motorists, parents and bodaboda riders to take personal responsibility for road safety, saying most road crashes can be prevented if traffic regulations are observed.
Speaking on Salam Omukeeze hosted by Salmah Namwanje, Ndyahabwe said discipline around railway crossings is critical, noting that trains operate on fixed tracks and schedules.
“A train doesn’t hit people because it runs on its own track and follows a set schedule. It’s people who end up in the train’s path,” she said. “We need to be extra careful near railway lines and follow all safety rules.”
She reminded motorists that railway crossings are clearly marked with road signs that must be obeyed.
“Wherever there are railway lines, there are always signposts that must be followed. As drivers, we need to stay alert and pay attention to the road. If we don’t, we risk causing avoidable accidents,” she said.
Ndyahabwe also highlighted safety requirements for school transport, noting that school buses and shuttles are legally required to undergo an inspection before every trip to confirm they are roadworthy.
“School directors and other stakeholders need to pay closer attention to this requirement,” she said.
She added that ensuring children's safety is a shared responsibility.
“Parents are encouraged to escort their children to school early in the morning or enrol them in nearby schools to reduce the risks associated with travelling long distances. Traffic officers and community leaders also have a role to play,” she said.
The traffic officer warned that careless driving on highways continues to claim lives and urged motorists to remain vigilant.
“Drivers need to stay focused on highways. Careless driving has led to many road crashes and cost many lives,” she said.
With the festive season approaching, Ndyahabwe cautioned against drunk driving and operating vehicles without valid driving permits.
“During the festive season, crash rates are always high because many people travel to their villages for celebrations. Some drive without a licence, while others drive under the influence of alcohol. Once a life is lost, it can never be brought back,” she said.
She reminded motorists that every category of vehicle requires the appropriate class of driving licence and warned that those found driving without one would face prosecution.
Ndyahabwe also expressed concern over the rising theft of bodabodas in Wakiso District, saying criminals are now targeting even motorcycles fitted with digital number plates by dismantling them and selling the parts.
“Riders should be extra cautious about who they carry and where they travel. Avoid unfamiliar areas, and always ensure your motorcycle is secured whenever you park it,” she advised.
While acknowledging the presence of security personnel, she noted that officers cannot be everywhere at all times and called for greater use of surveillance technology, including CCTV cameras and other crime detection tools.
Concluding the discussion, Ndyahabwe reaffirmed the Uganda Police Force's commitment to traffic enforcement and vehicle inspections.
“We will continue carrying out vehicle inspections and enforcement operations to protect lives. This is our responsibility, and we urge everyone to play their part. When lives are protected, we all live in peace and harmony,” she said.
She added that traffic enforcement operations will be intensified in the coming weeks, particularly around schools, railway crossings and major highways leading out of Wakiso.
