New Speed Limit Regulation to Save Lives in High-Traffic Areas

The Ministry of Works and Transport has officially gazetted the Traffic and Road Safety (Prescription of Speed Limits) Regulations, 2024, enforcing a new maximum speed limit of 30 km/h on roads adjacent to schools, churches, hospitals, markets, and business centers.

This regulation targets areas with heavy foot and vehicle traffic, aiming to reduce accidents and improve road safety for all users.

In a statement shared by the ministry, it was emphasized that slower speeds are crucial for protecting vulnerable road users.

"Safer Communities – our roads are shared by boda bodas, cyclists, street vendors, and pedestrians. Slower speeds reduce the chances of avoidable incidents," the ministry stated on X.

This initiative comes as Uganda grapples with one of the highest road accident rates in Africa, particularly in urban areas where speeding is a common contributor to crashes.

By implementing these reduced speed limits, the government hopes to curb accidents and foster safer environments for both pedestrians and drivers.