Nuwabiine’s report shows that 528, 027 tickets were issued to drivers and motorcyclists for driving vehicles in dangerous mechanical conditions, careless driving, riding without crash helmets, driving without a valid driving permit, and obstruction on a road by loading or offloading.
The Traffic Police Directorate reported collecting 41 billion shillings in penalties in 2023, according to a report released by Senior Commissioner of Police (SCP) Lawrence Niwabiine, the acting director.
Niwabiine’s report detailed that 528,027 tickets were issued to drivers and motorcyclists for offenses such as driving vehicles in dangerous mechanical conditions, careless driving, riding without crash helmets, driving without a valid driving permit, and obstruction on roads caused by loading or offloading.
“Driving a motor vehicle in a dangerous mechanical condition had the highest number of offenders, with 99,068 instances recorded. This was followed by obstruction on the road caused by loading or offloading, with 95,667 instances, and driving without a valid driver’s permit, with 77,430,” said Niwabiine.
The total value of the tickets issued amounted to 41.4 billion shillings, though 421.3 million shillings remained unpaid by traffic offenders. Experts in road safety have expressed differing opinions regarding the substantial amount collected from traffic offenders.
Susan Tumuhairwe, programs coordinator at Safe Way Right Way (SWRW), believes that penalties can encourage drivers and riders to become more responsible and cautious road users. She stated, “Penalties, if well executed, can serve as a deterrent measure.”
However, Fredrick Kiapi, project manager of Hope for Victims of Traffic Accidents (HOVITA), argued that traffic penalties have minimal impact on road safety. He pointed out that the penalty funds go to the consolidated fund, and it is up to the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development to allocate the money, with little investment made in road safety.
The highest number of traffic offenses occurred in November, with 53,684 cases recorded, generating 3.77 billion shillings. Conversely, December, known for festive celebrations related to Christmas and New Year’s Day, saw the fewest traffic offenses, with 25,921 tickets issued and a collection of only 1.388 billion shillings.
Police attribute the lower number of traffic offenses in December to intensified enforcement efforts, causing drivers to be more cautious and ensuring their vehicles were in good condition. Niwabiine also noted that most crashes occur between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
