By Amos Ssemuwemba
In a decisive effort to address the alarming rise in road-related fatalities involving school children, the Traffic Police have unveiled a new road safety campaign coinciding with the start of the third school term. This initiative seeks to tackle a troubling trend that has seen a significant increase in pupil deaths on the roads over recent years.
Michael Kananura, Traffic Police Spokesperson, has drawn attention to the urgency of the situation. The figures are stark: Uganda experienced 650 pupil fatalities in 2022, which surged to 872 in 2023, and there have already been 234 deaths in the early months of 2024.
“Road safety is not just a personal concern but a collective obligation. We all have roles to play in ensuring the safety of our children,” Kananura emphasized.
In response, the Traffic Police have introduced a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at students, parents, motorists, and school administrators, fostering a unified approach to road safety.
For Students:
- Utilize designated taxis and boda boda stages for transportation.
- Stay vigilant and minimize distractions while walking or crossing streets.
- Walk in groups and crossroads in a single file to enhance visibility and safety.
For Parents/Guardians:
- Teach children about essential road safety rules.
- Accompany younger children to and from school to ensure their protection.
- Ensure helmets are worn by pupils and cyclists.
- Opt for safe and dependable modes of school transport.
For Motorists:
- Reduce speed near schools and pedestrian crossings.
- Adhere to speed limits and avoid distractions while driving.
For School Administrators:
- Ensure safe school surroundings and set up designated crossing points for students.
- Collaborate with local authorities to promote road safety awareness.
- Oversee student drop-off and pick-up areas to maintain order and safety.
The Traffic Police also urge the public to play an active role in this initiative by reporting reckless driving. A toll-free number, 0800199099, has been provided for this purpose.
In emphasizing the importance of community involvement, this campaign highlights the collective responsibility required to safeguard school children and improve overall road safety.