Kampala Roads Claim 407 Lives in 2025, Motorcyclists Most Affected

Kampala witnessed a tragic toll on its roads in 2025, with a report from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) indicating that 407 individuals lost their lives in road traffic crashes. This figure represents a slight increase from the 404 fatalities recorded in 2024.

Motorcyclists bore the brunt of these accidents, accounting for a staggering 50 percent of all deaths. Alongside pedestrians and cyclists, these vulnerable road users comprised 94 percent of all road traffic fatalities, highlighting a persistent safety challenge in the city. The report also noted that young adults, specifically those aged between 20 and 39, were the most affected demographic, raising concerns about the socio-economic impact on Kampala’s productive population.

While the total number of deaths saw a minor rise, the report, led by Ms. Stellah Namatovu with support from the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), indicated a slight decrease in the death rate when adjusted for population growth, moving from 9.9 deaths per 100,000 people in 2024 to 9.5 in 2025. Serious injuries also saw a reduction of approximately three percent.

Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that “Every road traffic death is one too many.” He called for continued investment in safer streets, robust enforcement, and enhanced public awareness to protect all road users, especially the most vulnerable.

Key high-risk locations identified include Bwaise Roundabout, Busega Roundabout, Masanafu Roundabout, and the Mbogo-Najjera Road Junction. The KCCA plans targeted engineering improvements, stricter enforcement, and educational campaigns for these areas. Deputy Executive Director Benon Kigenyi stressed that the report provides a “clear roadmap for action” to guide interventions and save lives.

This report underscores the critical need for improved road safety measures in Kampala, focusing on speed management, enforcement, and the protection of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety acknowledged that while mobility is essential, it carries significant risks, including crashes involving poorly maintained vehicles. They reaffirmed their commitment to preventing accidents and saving lives, recognizing road safety as a shared responsibility among all stakeholders.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)