SP Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, has called on the Safe Steps Campaign organizers to include traffic officers in their road safety training programs. He emphasized the importance of equipping these officers with adequate skills, as they are often among the first responders at the scene of road accidents.
Kananura highlighted that many lives have been lost due to mishandling by some officers who lack proper training, stressing the need for traffic officers to be trained on how to manage road crash victims to prevent further harm.
“Traffic officers are first responders too, and they need these trainings because not all of them know what to do when a road crash happens. Some officers mishandle victims, leading to unnecessary deaths,” he stated.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Performance Report 2023, there were 23,608 road traffic crashes, with motorcycles accounting for 36% (13,386) and motor cars 28% (10,398).
During the Safe Steps season two finale on Wednesday, Kananura commended the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS), Prudential, and Bukedde TV for their efforts in promoting road safety, he noted that road safety is a collective responsibility, and everyone has a role to play in reducing road crashes in Uganda.
The Safe Steps road safety campaign, implemented by the URCS with support from Prudence Foundation and Prudential Uganda, aims to raise awareness and promote safer driving habits across the country. The campaign has reached over 8,000 boda boda riders in central, western, and eastern Uganda, equipping them with essential road safety and first aid skills.
Kananura also expressed concern about individuals who steal from road crash victims, urging people to prioritize saving lives over theft.
Robert Kwesiga, Secretary General of URCS, acknowledged that while the campaign has not yet achieved its full potential, it has made progress in addressing issues such as drunk driving, speed limits, and pedestrian safety, reaching over 10,000 motorcycle riders. “Our call to those trained is to set an example for others. Only then can we say the investment in this initiative is being put to proper use,” Kwesiga emphasized.
Tetteh Ayitevie, Chief Executive Officer of Prudential Uganda, expressed pride in the campaign’s impact, noting that it aligns with their commitment to delivering real-world impact and building long-term resilience in the communities they serve. “Road safety is a critical issue, and through our collective efforts, we have made significant strides in educating the public and promoting safer driving practices. We will continue supporting initiatives aimed at reducing road crashes,” he said.
Ogwal Alex from the Ministry of Gender praised the initiative and added that in addition to training, riders should also focus on eliminating hazardous materials from their motorcycles, avoiding harmful behaviors like drug abuse, and adhering to administrative controls to ensure road safety for everyone.
Since its launch in Uganda, the Safe Steps campaign has reached over 10,000 motorcycle riders, covering the Kampala metropolitan area and other districts such as Mbarara, Mbale, Masaka, and Mityana.
