Linnya Step Campaign Intensifies Push for Safer Boda Boda Practices

Road safety advocates, policymakers, and media partners have united for the second iteration of the Linnya Step Road Safety Campaign, aiming to significantly reduce road crashes by fostering public awareness and encouraging behavioural change.

The campaign’s launch at the Next Conference Center saw calls for boda boda riders to prioritize safety. Nathan Byanyima, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Infrastructure, stressed the importance of adhering to traffic regulations, moderating speed, and refraining from riding under the influence of alcohol.

Byanyima also highlighted the critical role of helmets and professionalism in the boda boda sector, noting that “about 90 percent of workers in Uganda use boda bodas.” He emphasized that riders’ customers are their priority, making road safety paramount.

Peter Mungoma, CEO of Capital FM, called for greater respect towards boda boda riders, asserting they are often unfairly scapegoated for road incidents. “Boda boda riders are human beings and deserve respect from other road users. Not every mistake on the road is made by them,” he stated.

Mable Tomusange, Managing Consultant at Consult Afrika Usalama, advocated for the implementation of dedicated lanes for boda bodas to improve separation from other vehicles and enhance overall road safety. She stressed that lasting improvements require a dual approach: significant behavioural shifts among all road users and evidence-based policy interventions.

Tomusange also directly challenged riders on helmet usage, posing a stark question: “Which is better: wearing a helmet or suffering a head injury?” The campaign plans to continue its engagement through various awareness activities across Uganda, striving for safer roads and fewer accidents.

Source: Nile Post