The Uganda Police Force has unveiled a new nationwide road safety directive that will see highway speed limits reduced from 100 km/h to 90 km/h. Officials say the adjustment is part of a broader plan to tame the rising number of fatal crashes, and implementation will officially begin once the Ministry of Works and Transport updates all related road signs across the country.
In a statement issued by SP Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, motorists were urged to prepare for the revised speed rules. He explained that the move is designed to strengthen protection for both drivers and pedestrians as authorities continue to confront a sharp increase in road accidents.
According to the new guidance, speed limits will now stand at 30 km/h in areas with heavy pedestrian activity such as schools, hospitals, and markets; 50 km/h in built-up towns; 90 km/h on highways; and 100 km/h on expressways. The adjustments are also aligned with the Electronic Penalty System, a digital enforcement tool being rolled out to improve monitoring of speed violations, lane discipline, and reckless driving.
SP Kananura noted that although many road signs still show the old 100 km/h limit, the revised 90 km/h rule will only become enforceable once the Ministry of Works installs updated signage nationwide. He urged drivers to be patient and continue following the posted limits until the transition is complete.
The traffic advisory sparked significant discussion online, with many road users welcoming the decision. Several motorists agreed that reducing speed is one of the most effective ways to prevent fatal crashes. One user shared a near-collision involving a reckless boda boda rider, crediting his slow speed for helping him avoid disaster. Others urged fellow drivers to adopt safer habits and plan their journeys earlier instead of speeding.
The announcement comes in the wake of a series of deadly crashes, including the recent Kampala–Gulu Highway tragedy that claimed 46 lives. Uganda recorded more than 25,000 road crashes in 2024, leading to at least 4,434 deaths and thousands of injuries, according to the Police Annual Crime Report. Many of these incidents have been attributed to excessive speeding, dangerous overtaking, and sudden lane changes.
As part of renewed awareness efforts, Police continue to use social media campaigns and public education to caution motorists about the dangers of high speed. SP Kananura reminded drivers that while speed may seem thrilling, it remains one of the biggest contributors to loss of life on Uganda’s roads. He encouraged motorists to drive responsibly, stay alert, and always prioritise arriving home safely.
The upcoming speed limit changes are being positioned as one of the country’s most significant road safety moves in recent years, and authorities remain optimistic that the reforms will help save countless lives once fully implemented.
Ugandan watchdog
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