Safe Vehicles, Safer Uganda: Ministry of Works Launches Road Safety Week 2025
The festive season is fast approaching, but with it comes a critical warning: Uganda is losing 14 people daily to road traffic accidents. In a determined effort to curb this devastating trend and restore sanity to the roads during the peak travel season, the Ministry of Works and Transport has officially launched the Uganda Road Safety Week 2025, running throughout December.
This year’s campaign is themed “Safe Vehicles for a Safer Uganda.” The focus is sharp and clear: addressing the mechanical failures and vehicle conditions that tragically contribute to a significant portion of fatal crashes.
During the launch, the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, unveiled the intensified Mandatory Vehicle Inspection Campaign.
“The essence of inspection is not to make money but to save lives,” Gen. Katumba Wamala declared, underscoring the necessity of this initiative.
Acknowledging that many crashes stem partly from poor vehicle condition, the Minister strongly urged all Ugandans to adhere to this safety measure. To make compliance achievable for everyone, he confirmed that the inspection prices have been drastically lowered to ensure the exercise is affordable. This move removes a major barrier, signaling the government’s priority is genuinely safety, not revenue.
Road safety is a shared responsibility, and the Ministry is using this campaign to rally the entire transportation ecosystem. They are calling for active participation from all actors in the vehicle network, including mechanics, vehicle dealers and manufacturers, enforcement agencies, fleet owners and the media.
The Minister stressed that even the safest vehicle requires a vigilant driver. He issued a stern call to action for all road users—drivers, motorcycle riders, and passengers alike—to actively guard against common risk factors like drink driving, speeding among others.
This festive season, the Ministry is wishing all Ugandans a safe one, but it comes with a strong plea: Be courteous, be vigilant, and prioritize safety whenever you use the roads.
Let’s work together to ensure that this December, “Safe Vehicles for a Safer Uganda” is not just a theme, but a reality.
Compiled by
Mark Ssenoga
