In response to the alarming rise in road accidents, the Ugandan government has introduced a series of comprehensive traffic directives and penalties to enhance road safety. These measures, encompassing revised speed limits, stricter enforcement protocols, and the integration of advanced technology, signify a pivotal shift in the nation’s approach to traffic management.
Revised Speed Limits for Enhanced Safety
The Traffic and Road Safety (Prescription of Speed Limits) Regulations, 2024, mark a significant overhaul of Uganda’s speed management framework. Under these regulations, speed limits are now tailored to specific road types and vehicle categories to mitigate accidents:
Urban Areas and Trading Centers: A uniform speed limit of 30 km/h has been established for all vehicles, including passenger cars, motorcycles, public service vehicles, and goods vehicles. This measure aims to protect pedestrians and reduce collisions in densely populated zones.
Highways: The maximum speed limit is set at 100 km/h for passenger vehicles, aligning with international standards and ensuring consistency across major roadways.
These adjustments enhance pedestrian safety, streamline traffic flow, and align Uganda’s transport policies with global best practices.
Escalated Penalties for Speeding Offenses
To reinforce adherence to the new speed limits, the government has introduced stringent penalties under the Traffic and Road Safety (Express Penalty Scheme for Road Traffic Offenders) Regulations, 2024:
Exceeding Speed Limits by 1–30 km/h: Offenders face a fine of 10 currency points, equivalent to UGX 200,000.
Exceeding Speed Limits by More Than 30 km/h: This violation attracts a fine of 30 currency points, amounting to UGX 600,000.
These penalties represent a significant increase from previous fines, reflecting the government’s commitment to deterring reckless driving.
Here’s a table summarizing the new traffic fines and penalties in Uganda, based on the image:
| # | Offense | Fine (UGX) | Imprisonment | Other Penalties |
| 1 | Drunk Driving | Up to 500,000 | – | Mandatory court appearance, license suspension |
| 2 | Using a Phone While Driving | 2,000,000 | Up to 1 year | Or both fine and imprisonment |
| 3 | Speeding (1–30 km/h over limit) | 200,000 | – | – |
| Speeding (over 30 km/h) | 600,000 | – | – | |
| 4 | Failing to Wear a Seatbelt | 80,000 | – | – |
| 5 | Using an Unlicensed or Uninsured Car | 200,000 – 600,000 | 1–2 years | – |
| 6 | Causing Injury or Death due to Careless Driving | 1,500,000 – 4,000,000 | 2–5 years | – |
| 7 | Careless Driving | 1,200,000 – 1,800,000 | 2–3 years | – |
Introduction of the Automated Express Penalty System (EPSAuto)
In a bid to modernize traffic law enforcement, the Ministry of Works and Transport has unveiled the Automated Express Penalty System (EPSAuto). This digital enforcement tool, part of the broader Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS), is set to automate penalties for common traffic violations, including over-speeding and red-light offenses.
Key features of EPSAuto include:
Digital Number Plates with Automatic Recognition: Facilitates real-time identification of vehicles committing traffic offenses.
CCTV Surveillance: Monitors speed and red-light compliance, providing photographic or video evidence of violations.
Real-Time Data Processing: Centralized command centers process data swiftly, ensuring timely issuance of electronic fines (E-fines).
Offenders will receive notifications detailing the offense, fine amount, due date, and available payment channels, including mobile money platforms and online portals linked to the Uganda Revenue Authority.
Shift from Express Penalty Scheme to Prosecution for Reckless Driving
Recognizing the limitations of the Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) in curbing dangerous driving behaviors, the Uganda Police Force has revised its enforcement strategy. Under the new directive, traffic officers are instructed to arrest and prosecute reckless drivers instead of issuing EPS tickets.
Superintendent of Police Michael Kananura emphasized that this approach aims to enforce traffic regulations more effectively, as previous measures were deemed insufficiently punitive.
Public Reception and Implementation Challenges
The introduction of these directives has elicited mixed reactions from the public. While many commend the government’s efforts to enhance road safety, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for increased corruption and the adequacy of infrastructure to support the new measures.
Policy analyst Jane Nalunga cautioned that the heightened fines might inadvertently encourage bribery, as offenders may opt to pay bribes rather than face substantial penalties.
Additionally, the successful implementation of EPSAuto hinges on the availability of technological infrastructure, such as CCTV cameras and reliable internet connectivity, which may be lacking in certain regions.
Conclusion
Uganda’s new road traffic directives and penalties represent a comprehensive approach to addressing the country’s escalating road safety challenges. By integrating stricter speed limits, enhanced penalties, and advanced enforcement technologies, the government aims to foster a culture of responsible driving and reduce traffic-related fatalities.
However, the effectiveness of these measures will depend on consistent enforcement, public compliance, and the government’s ability to address infrastructural and systemic challenges. Continued public education and stakeholder engagement will be crucial in ensuring the success of these initiatives and the realization of safer roads for all Ugandans.
