This year, ROSACU has an extensive set of initiatives that it is committed to sustaining and scaling up. Our continued focus will be on advocating for stronger enforcement of road safety laws, improving road infrastructure, expanding research and data collection, scaling up boda-boda safety programs, enhancing public transport safety, promoting safer school zones, leading public awareness campaigns, strengthening emergency response systems, advancing policy reforms, and deepening community engagement.
The work ahead is extensive, but it is necessary to achieve safer roads for all.
With the combined expertise of diverse member organizations working together as Road Safety Advocacy Coalition Uganda (ROSACU), and with strong support from government and international partners, we are confident that we can address key challenges and deliver even greater results.
ROSACU Chairperson Fred Tumwiine reflected on the coalition’s steady progress while acknowledging that significant challenges remain. He identified limited resources as a major constraint but expressed optimism that, through a clear understanding of these challenges and by sustaining our commitment, expertise, and collaboration, we will overcome them. As he noted, “We are confident we can accomplish what we have started if we maintain the passion and dedication that guided us from the beginning.”
Key Priorities and Reflections
1. Funding
Financial sustainability remains the most pressing challenge for ROSACU. With expanded membership and increased expertise, ROSACU has identified priority areas requiring urgent action. The next step is securing funding to implement these critical initiatives.
2. Sustainability, Teamwork, and Partnerships
ROSACU has grown from five member organizations to nearly forty and aims to reach one hundred members to strengthen partnerships and collective impact. A larger coalition provides stronger structures, broader expertise, and a more influential voice with government and development partners. Experience has shown that fragmented advocacy limits impact, while unified action delivers meaningful change.
3. Youth Engagement
Young people are among the most affected by road crashes and play a vital role in shaping safer road systems. Their innovation, energy, and lived experiences are invaluable. URRENO, led by Chairperson Tumwiine, demonstrates this commitment—90% of its staff are youth, and it has become a leading road safety advocate. ROSACU will continue promoting youth leadership and supporting youth-led initiatives nationwide.
4. Strengthening Member Commitment
ROSACU will continue motivating members through a shared purpose, fair distribution of resources, and collaborative planning. Members are encouraged to participate with passion and commitment to saving lives, while ROSACU maintains regular engagement to understand member needs and strengthen collective impact.
5. Engaging the Private Sector
The private sector has a critical role in improving road safety. Safer roads mean reduced losses, healthier employees, and stronger economic growth. ROSACU invites private-sector partners to support policy development, enforcement initiatives, awareness campaigns, and community programs that can accelerate change.
6. Citizen-Centered Actions
Road safety is a shared national responsibility. Citizens can help by:
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Participating in awareness campaigns
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Following traffic rules and encouraging others to do otherwise
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Reporting dangerous road conditions
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Supporting government-led solutions
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Promoting safe practices among youth
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Contributing skills or resources to advocacy efforts
Uganda has previously united to address major public health challenges such as HIV and COVID-19. The same collective spirit can reduce road crashes and save lives.
A Legacy of Unity and Stronger Voices
As ROSACU’s first Chairperson, Mr. Tumwiine’s vision has been to build a strong, united coalition that attracts members, government institutions, and international partners. Together, ROSACU has supported impactful initiatives, including speed-limit advocacy and child-restraint policy promotion.
Road crashes continue to rise, affecting far too many families. Only through coordinated action by government, private-sector partners, communities, and citizens can we reduce crashes and safeguard lives.