The Speed Limits Regulations 2024 introduce revised regulations on modern highways such as the Northern Bypass and the Entebbe Expressway, while also lowering limits in built-up areas from 50 km/h to 30km/h. These changes align with international best practices and are part of Uganda’s broader commitment to achieving its 2030 road safety targets. The updated regulation is a critical tool in reducing the country’s alarming rate of traffic fatalities, especially among vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, passengers, and cyclists.
The Difference Between Expressways and Bypass Speeds
What is often perceived as inconsistency is actually due to a misunderstanding of road classifications and legal provisions. Entebbe Expressway has a posted limit of 100 km/h, as per the law for dual carriageways. However, Bypasses have lower limits-70 km/h and 60 km/h, because they allow access to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists (bodaboda riders), who are not permitted on the Expressway. As of February 14, 2025, the speed regulation took effect, mandating a maximum speed of 30 km/h in high-risk areas, such as schools, hospitals, markets, and business centers, to prioritize safety and protect communities. As for the rural, local and urban authorities, they should seek permission from the Ministry of Works and Transport to adjust speed limits further based on the needs of their specific areas.
Strengthening Speed Limit Implementation Through Transparency
While no enforcement system is perfect, consistent implementation and clear speed management guidelines will help resolve operational issues over time, if the following measures are put in place;
• Forming a multi-sectoral committees at all levels to handle public appeals and build trust.
• Development of clear national guidelines for speed management.
• Involvement of strong political leadership to prioritize road safety.
• VIP Driver Training: The government should invest in VIP driver training to enhance their professionalism in managing traffic-related crises and to safeguard both bosses and other road users.
• Equity: To address the growing tensions of enforcement, exceptions should only be for high-profile officials like the President and those with rights to ways. Any other violator should be handled and penalized accordingly, and equally. Government drivers who are caught breaking traffic laws should be held accountable, as enforcing such accountability promotes compliance and strengthens public trust.
During this ESP suspension and review, enforcement efforts should continue with the following key actions:
• Distinguish EPS from Speed Limit and ITMS laws.
• Continue enforcement, by using handheld speed cameras.
• Revise fines of UGX 600,000 and 72-hour payment rule.
• Test programs with community engagement through Pilot projects
• Guide enforcement using data-driven actions likes research and report.
• Revenue Transparency: Fines collected should be reinvested in road safety programs.
• Share implementation checklists for EPS with key stakeholders.
• Phased rollout: Introduce changes gradually, not all at once, no!
• Involve community through regular dialogues and feedback.