SAFE STEPS, SAFE STREETS: UGANDA JOINS THE GLOBAL CALL FOR #MAKEWALKINGSAFE AND #MAKECYCLINGSAFE

As the world gears up for the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, Uganda is taking a proactive stance in addressing the pressing issue of road safety, with a particular emphasis on protecting its most vulnerable road users: pedestrians and cyclists. Scheduled for May 12-18, 2025, this year’s global campaign, spearheaded by the United Nations in collaboration with other Road Safety Organizations, carries the powerful themes #MakeWalkingSafe and #MakeCyclingSafe.

Uganda’s road crashes are worsening, with a 15% increase in victims from 2022 to 2023, impacting fatalities, serious injuries, and minor injuries; on average, 12 people die daily on Ugandan roads, with motorcycle riders/passengers (45%) and pedestrians (37%) being the most vulnerable, and the majority of road crash victims are male (74%) and young, with 60% of all fatalities being individuals under 35 years old.

Like many other nations, pedestrians and cyclists constitute a significant portion of road traffic fatalities. The data is alarming, and it’s a reality that Safe Way Right Way (SWRW) is working tirelessly to change. SWRW, a prominent NGO with a strong track record in developing and implementing effective road safety interventions, has been a leading voice in advocating for the rights of non-motorized road users.

“For too long, the needs of pedestrians and cyclists have been overlooked in urban planning and road infrastructure development,” says Irene Namuyiga, General Manager for SWRW. “This has resulted in a dangerous environment where walking and cycling are often perceived as risky, discouraging people from adopting these healthy and sustainable modes of transport.”

SWRW is particularly vocal about the challenges faced by women cyclists in Uganda. Cultural norms and safety concerns often deter women from cycling, limiting their access to education, employment, and essential services. During the UN Global Road Safety Week, SWRW is organizing several events aimed at raising awareness about these issues and promoting policies that ensure the safety of women cyclists.

The organization’s advocacy efforts align with the global objectives of the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, which include:

  • Raising global awareness of the dangers that road traffic poses to non-motorized commuters.
  • Promoting safe infrastructure and transport policies for walking and cycling.
  • Encouraging policy reforms and law enforcement to reduce road traffic injuries and deaths.
  • Highlighting that safe urban transport options are crucial for enhancing public health, sustainability, and equality.
  • Emphasizing the importance of infrastructure enhancements such as dedicated lanes, 30 km/h urban speed limits, and improved lighting.

In the lead-up to the week, SWRW has been engaging with government agencies, urban planners, and community leaders to push for the implementation of these interventions.

“We envision a Uganda where everyone can walk and cycle safely, regardless of their gender or socio-economic status,” Irene Namuyiga says. “The 8th UN Global Road Safety Week provides a crucial platform for us to renew our commitment to this vision and to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to make it a reality.”

As Uganda joins the global community in observing this important week, the hope is that it will spur concrete action towards creating a safer and more inclusive transportation system for all.