Kasese District has come under renewed focus following a rise in road accidents, prompting authorities to intensify calls for safer road use among motorists, riders, and pedestrians.
The appeal was made by the Deputy Director for Traffic and Road Safety in the Uganda Police Force, Assistant Commissioner of Police Norman Musinga, while addressing transport stakeholders in Kasese.
He emphasized the need for collective responsibility in reducing road carnage across the district.
Recent Traffic Police records show that in 2025, a total of 322,441 incidents were registered, a reduction from 426,432 cases recorded in 2024. Out of these, 26,044 were road crashes, including 4,602 fatal cases, 13,563 serious crashes, and 7,879 minor incidents.
Kasese, which hosts the Rwenzori East Regional Police, was singled out among areas with concerning road safety trends.
According to Traffic Public Relations Officer SP Michael Kananura, the district recorded 321 accidents in 2025 alone, resulting in 57 deaths, 196 serious injuries, and 68 minor cases.
“We continue to register alarming figures in some regions, including Kasese, and this calls for urgent intervention from all stakeholders,” Kananura said.
He added that many of the crashes are preventable if road users adhere to traffic regulations and exercise caution while on the road.
Deputy Director Norman Musinga attributed the high accident rate in Kasese to reckless driving, dangerous overtaking especially at black spots, speeding, drunk driving, and the use of vehicles in poor mechanical condition.
“Most of these accidents are caused by human error. Drivers must avoid reckless behavior and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before use,” Musinga stressed.
Transport sector stakeholders have also expressed concern over the situation, calling for more visible and practical safety interventions.
The Manager for Link Bus Services in Bwera, Saad Nyakahuma, urged the Traffic Police to install road safety signage in accident-prone areas.
“We need clear road signs, especially in black spots, to guide motorists and help regulate speed. This will go a long way in reducing accidents,” Nyakahuma said.
Meanwhile, boda boda riders pointed to behavioral challenges among road users as a contributing factor.
Wilson Isebayanda, a rider in Kasese, cited deception between riders and passengers, as well as drug abuse, as key issues fueling accidents.
“Some riders lie about their location to customers and, in trying to cover lost distance, end up speeding. Drug use also affects judgment on the road, leading to crashes,” Isebayanda noted.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to strengthening enforcement and awareness campaigns, urging all road users in Kasese to prioritize safety and responsibility in order to save lives.