news 16 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Stricter Penalties Loom for Errant Motorists as Uganda Approves Road Safety Reforms
Uganda is set to implement enhanced penalties for traffic violations following nationwide consultations that have seen key stakeholders endorse significant reforms to the Electronic Penalty System (EPS). These changes aim to bolster road safety and curb the rising number of accidents. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/errant-motorists-face-tougher-penalties-as-stakeholders-back-eps-reforms-5499168
Motorists in Uganda may soon face more stringent consequences for breaking traffic laws. The Ministry of Works and Transport, along with various stakeholders, has backed a suite of reforms to the Electronic Penalty System (EPS) designed to improve road safety across the country.
Key among the proposed changes is an extension of the payment window for Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) tickets. Currently set at 72 hours, drivers will have up to 28 days to settle their fines. This adjustment, which still needs approval from Cabinet and Parliament, is part of a broader effort to make the system more manageable and encourage compliance.
Furthermore, the enforcement of the 30km/h speed limit is set to be refined, focusing specifically on high-risk zones such as hospitals, markets, and community access roads. Speeding fines are also slated for harmonization, moving away from dual penalties of Shs200,000 and Shs600,000 to a single, uniform fine of Shs160,000.
These proposals emerge from extensive nationwide consultations involving government bodies, road safety advocates, driver associations, and law enforcement. The Ministry of Works and Transport is now preparing to submit these validated reforms to Cabinet for further consideration before they are presented to Parliament.
In addition to penalty adjustments, the reforms advocate for improved infrastructure, including raised pedestrian crossings, clearer road markings, and enhanced safety measures in special zones. There’s also a push to regulate roadside markets and establish designated vending areas away from highways to mitigate accident risks.
Public awareness campaigns through various media channels are planned to ensure drivers are informed about the upcoming changes. Given the significant amount of unpaid EPS fines recorded, the reforms aim to strengthen accountability and ensure penalties are directed at the actual offenders, ultimately fostering a safer road environment for all.