Uganda has rolled out new traffic regulations under the Traffic and Road Safety (Prescription of Speed Limits) Regulations, 2024, introducing tighter speed controls in specific urban areas to improve road safety.
Under the updated rules, a strict 50 km/h speed cap now applies to certain high-risk roads, particularly those passing through busy towns, trading centres, and areas with significant pedestrian movement.
The Roads Affected by the New Speed Limit:
Wampewo (Gayaza Road)
Mpigi Town Corridor
Kawempe–Gayaza Road
Kyanja (Bombo Road)
Urban sections of Kampala–Jinja Highway
All highways cutting through trading centres and municipal areas
Authorities say these roads experience moderate to heavy traffic, mixed-use activities, and a high number of pedestrians, making lower speeds essential for public safety.
While the 50 km/h cap applies to passenger cars and motorcycles, heavier vehicles like trucks and buses are required to maintain even lower speed limits to further reduce the risk of fatal accidents.
Speeding violators will face instant fines through Uganda’s Automated Express Penalty System (EPSAuto). This digital system uses advanced cameras and number plate recognition to catch speed offenders in real time.
Here’s how the fines are structured: Exceeding the speed limit by 1–30 km/h attracts a fine of UGX 200,000, driving over the limit by more than 30 km/h leads to a fine of UGX 600,000.
Drivers are immediately notified of their offences via SMS or email, with no need for on-the-spot police stops.
Ugandan traffic authorities say the move is part of a wider national effort to reduce road accidents, especially in urban centres where pedestrians and motorists often share tight spaces.
By automating speed monitoring and setting clear limits, the government hopes to encourage safer driving habits and minimize avoidable road deaths.
