Government and Bus Operators to Hold Quarterly Road Safety Talks

In a move to enhance road safety across Uganda, the Ministry of Works and Transport has established a commitment to regular dialogue with taxi, bus, and truck driver associations. An agreement has been reached for quarterly meetings, providing a structured platform to address pressing issues.

These bi-annual discussions will delve into various challenges faced by drivers, including road safety concerns, enforcement strategies, working conditions, and payment disputes. The aim is to foster a more cooperative environment between authorities and transport operators.

Winston Katushabe, Commissioner for Road Safety, emphasized the importance of these continuous engagements. He stated that the meetings will allow the government to gain a deeper understanding of drivers’ daily struggles while simultaneously encouraging them to assume greater accountability for safe road practices.

The ministry also advocated for greater unity among drivers, suggesting that consolidating under a single, robust association would strengthen their collective voice when presenting concerns and negotiating with the government.

Furthermore, bus owners have been urged to formalize employment arrangements for their drivers. This initiative is expected to bolster accountability, enhance job security, and enable more effective monitoring of driver performance within specific companies.

Beyond addressing challenges, the quarterly meetings will also serve as an opportunity to recognize and commend drivers who consistently exhibit exemplary road safety behavior, thereby inspiring others to adopt similar safe driving habits. The government also called upon the public to report any observed dangerous driving practices, enabling timely interventions.

The next meeting is anticipated in late September or early October to review progress on agreed-upon actions and assess the effectiveness of implemented road safety measures. This sustained dialogue is seen as crucial for improving the transport sector and saving lives on Ugandan roads.

Source: Nile Post