The Uganda Traffic Police have reported an increase in road crashes over the past week, with motorcycle-related accidents accounting for the highest number of fatalities.
According to Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for the Traffic Police, 53% of the total deaths recorded between February 23 and March 1, 2025, were due to motorcycle crashes, while pedestrian-related accidents contributed 23% of the fatalities.
"Unsafe overtaking remains the leading cause of these crashes, accounting for 30% of all incidents," Kananura said during a press briefing.
"Speeding is another major contributor, responsible for 22% of the accidents recorded." Other significant causes included hit-and-run incidents (13%) and following too closely (7%).
Among the notable incidents was a fatal crash in Tororo on February 24, where a motorcycle carrying two female passengers collided with a train traveling to Malaba.
"The rider and one of the passengers died instantly," Kananura said. "We urge all motorists to be extra cautious at railway crossings and always give way to trains."
Another major accident occurred on February 26 at Namataba, Mukono, along the Jinja-Kampala highway.
A trailer carrying cement lost control after hitting a pothole at high speed, crashing into commercial structures and a residential house.
"Three pedestrians lost their lives, and six others sustained injuries," Kananura revealed. "Drivers must adhere to speed limits, especially in urban areas."
In another tragic crash on February 28 at Lugogo Cricket Oval, a truck carrying soda lost control and overturned onto a motorcycle, killing the rider and passenger instantly.
"Preliminary findings point to speed, reckless driving, and possible brake failure," Kananura stated. "We continue to urge all motorists to maintain their vehicles properly and drive responsibly."
To address the rising traffic violations, the Traffic Police have intensified enforcement operations, leading to the arrest of 1,041 drivers nationwide.
"We arrested 279 drivers for operating without valid licenses, 70 for dangerous loading, and 579 for careless driving," Kananura disclosed. "Speeding was another major concern, with 78 drivers caught exceeding limits."
In addition, 1,312 motorcycles were impounded for various offenses, including riding without a valid license (488 cases), failure to wear helmets (518 cases), and pillion riding (66 cases).
"We also arrested two bus drivers in the Eastern region who had been previously disqualified but were found operating Gateway buses without the required credentials," Kananura added.
"These drivers were taken to court and charged accordingly."
The Traffic Police have also intensified public engagement efforts, conducting 256 awareness campaigns in February through radio, television, and physical interactions.
"We are committed to fostering a culture of responsible driving to reduce road crashes," Kananura emphasized.
"Our operations will continue, with a specific focus on careless driving offenses, including reckless overtaking, unauthorized U-turns, and driving on pedestrian paths."
The police have urged the public to report traffic violations via their toll-free hotline 080199099
"Road safety is a collective responsibility," Kananura said. "We need everyone to play their part in reducing accidents and saving lives."