By Frank Kamuntu
Today at around 1340hrs, Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) funeral van reg no: H4DF 1532 lost control due to brake system failure at Abayita Ababiri township along Kampala – Entebbe road, ramming into four other vehicles.
Via its X handle, UPDF says, ”Traffic Police and our transport department are handling the matter together with the affected persons. We regret the incident, but fortunately, no one was injured. UPDF will always aspire to keep safety on the road and that of other road users.”
Today at around 1340hrs, our funeral Van Reg No: H4DF 1532 lost control due to brake system failure at Abayita Ababiri township along Kampala – Entebbe road, ramming into four other vehicles.
Traffic Police and our transport department are handling the matter together with the… pic.twitter.com/sYCNTUrrd7
— Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (@MODVA_UPDF) April 2, 2024
Road accidents are unfortunately a significant issue in Uganda, contributing to injuries, fatalities, and economic losses each year. Several factors contribute to the high rate of road accidents in Uganda, including:
- Poor road infrastructure: Many roads in Uganda suffer from poor maintenance, lack of signage, inadequate lighting, and insufficient traffic management systems, which increase the risk of accidents.
- Overloaded vehicles: Overloading of vehicles, particularly trucks and buses, is common in Uganda. This practice can lead to instability and difficulty in maneuvering, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Reckless driving: Some drivers in Uganda engage in reckless behaviors such as speeding, overtaking dangerously, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and ignoring traffic regulations, all of which contribute to the high rate of accidents.
- Inadequate enforcement of traffic laws: Enforcement of traffic laws and regulations by law enforcement agencies in Uganda is sometimes lacking, allowing drivers to flout rules with impunity.
- Poor road user behavior: Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists often do not adhere to road safety regulations, such as using designated crossing points or wearing helmets, contributing to accidents.
- Inadequate emergency response: Limited access to emergency medical services and inadequate trauma care facilities result in delayed or inadequate treatment for accident victims, increasing the severity of injuries and fatalities.
Efforts to address road safety in Uganda include initiatives to improve road infrastructure, enhance enforcement of traffic laws, promote road safety education and awareness campaigns, and strengthen emergency medical services. However, significant challenges remain, and concerted efforts from government agencies, civil society organizations, and the public are needed to reduce the incidence of road accidents and improve road safety in Uganda.
