The Ministry of Works and Transport, in partnership with the Lagos Road Safety Initiative, has announced the inaugural Road Safety Marathon, set to take place on May 31, 2025, at the Kampala Secondary School Grounds. The event, scheduled to start at 6:30 AM, aims to raise awareness about the alarming state of road safety in Uganda.
Addressing a gathering of government officials, civil society members, media representatives, and other stakeholders, at the Uganda Media Centre today, the State Minister for Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, emphasized the urgent need for collective action in reducing road traffic fatalities and injuries.
“According to the Uganda Police Traffic Road Report of 2024, we lost 5,144 people to road crashes in just one year,” Byamukama said. “These are not mere numbers , They are lives lost, families shattered, and a blow to our economy.”
The Minister pointed out that road crashes cost Uganda an estimated 5% of its GDP, a burden that significantly diverts resources from other critical services. He noted that the figures could be higher as many fatalities go unreported, especially in rural communities where victims are buried without official documentation.
The Road Safety Marathon will also serve a philanthropic cause. Proceeds from the event will support training for first responders in post-crash care, including rescue techniques and trauma management, to improve emergency responses in accident-prone areas.
“The marathon is not just a run; it’s a stand against reckless driving and a chance to equip communities with life-saving skills. Anyone can be a victim even media personnel traveling unknowingly with an intoxicated driver.” he stated
Participants can register by purchasing a specially designed marathon kit at UGX 30,000, which includes a branded vest and cap. Byamukama noted the subsidized price was made possible through the generous contributions of corporate partners including National Water and Sewerage Corporation, Frost Transporters, Uganda Insurers Association, Waba Water Ltd, Spouts of Water, and Simba Automotives.
“I urge the public to continue supporting organizations like National Water by paying water bills promptly. It’s through such partnerships that initiatives like this are possible,” he added.
In his speech, the Minister also touched on the broader issue of road maintenance and safety enforcement. He admitted that while some accidents are attributed to poor road conditions, a significant number occur even on well-maintained roads due to reckless driving, internal stress, and economic pressures.
“Not all accidents are caused by potholes. Just this morning, I witnessed a crash between a taxi and a Pajero in a corner with no potholes,” he shared.
Byamukama revealed the importance of passenger safety over economic concerns, warning that more punitive measures could follow.
He encouraged all Ugandans to participate in the marathon whether by running, walking, cycling, or spreading the message.
“No one deserves to die in a road crash. Let’s run together for road safety,” he urged.