Northern Uganda drivers urge traffic law awareness campaign

Drivers in Northern Uganda are urging the government to prioritise public education about the newly implemented traffic penalties under Uganda’s revamped road safety enforcement system.

They argue that while the intention behind the laws is commendable, the lack of awareness especially among rural drivers could lead to unnecessary penalties and confusion on the roads.

Bernard Anyeko Masanga, Chairman of the Uganda Northern Drivers and Transport Network, voiced concerns over the limited understanding of the new traffic regulations among drivers in upcountry areas.

He warned that many drivers are at risk of being punished unfairly due to lack of information.

“We’re not against the law. But we are asking the authorities to first sensitize drivers, especially those in upcountry areas like Lango,” Anyeko emphasized.

In response to these concerns, Irene Chelengat, the Regional Traffic Officer for Lango, assured the public that the government is preparing to launch sensitization campaigns to raise awareness about the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS).

This newly introduced digital surveillance system is designed to detect and penalize traffic offenses in real-time through the use of cameras installed at major roads and intersections.

Chelengat explained that the ITMS will be rolled out progressively, city by city. Lira is among the initial towns scheduled for implementation, where Kampala-based experts are expected to spearhead the public education effort.

According to Chelengat, the goal is to ensure drivers understand how the system works before full enforcement begins.

The ITMS will target offenses such as speeding, red light violations, and failure to carry valid driving permits. Once a violation is detected, the system will automatically record it and issue electronic penalties to the vehicle owner or driver. These measures are part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance road safety and reduce fatalities.

Some of the key penalties under the new traffic regulations are drawing concern. Driving with an expired permit could result in a shs500,000 fine, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Repeated or severe violations can attract fines of up to shs3 million.

Additionally, holding or using a mobile phone while driving now attracts a fine of shs300,000. For those caught driving under the influence of alcohol, a new blood alcohol limit has been set at 0.08% BAC.

The first offense carries a shs1 million fine or a one-year driving license suspension, while repeat offenders face a two-year suspension and mandatory rehabilitation.

The importation or registration of left-hand drive vehicles is now banned, except for emergency services and diplomatic use.

Furthermore, the new laws promote pedestrian safety by penalizing drivers who obstruct pedestrian crossings or walkways. Government officials say urban road designs will now adopt a “pedestrians-first” policy to reduce accidents.

Despite welcoming the modernization of traffic enforcement, many drivers in Lira have expressed concern about the sudden implementation of the measures.

They are calling for a grace period and fairer enforcement strategies, particularly in remote areas where access to information is limited.

“The fines are high, and most drivers don’t even know when their permits expired,” said Geofrey Olobo, a commuter taxi driver in Lira. “We’re requesting a grace period and a campaign in local languages.”

The Ministry of Works and Transport maintains that the new traffic regulations are essential for reducing road crashes, improving driver discipline, and ultimately saving lives.

However, drivers insist that meaningful success can only be achieved if the measures are accompanied by extensive public education and awareness campaigns.

In the coming weeks, authorities plan to begin sensitization sessions in the Lango sub-region, starting with Lira City.

The campaign will include radio talk shows, printed educational materials, and community barazas to ensure that no driver is left uninformed.