The Uganda Professional Drivers’ Network (UPDN) has concluded its Annual Drivers’ Conference, emphasizing the importance of professional ethics and conduct among public and private vehicle drivers.
The two-day conference held at Imperial Royale Hotel focused on key behavioral risk factors, particularly speeding, which contributes to road crashes in Uganda. This comes as the government finalizes the Reviewed Traffic and Road Safety (Speed Limits) Regulations 2024, which includes reduced speed limits in built-up areas.
Ndugu Omongo, UPDN Executive Director, stressed the need for drivers to exhibit high-level professionalism, gaining confidence and trust from employers and the public. He attributed major road crashes to lack of professional training.
Moses Tayebwa, a professional drivers’ trainer, highlighted road hazards, categorizing them into permanent, semi-permanent, and moving hazards. Ibrahim Kayondo, United Bus Drivers Association representative, emphasized the importance of professionalism.
Stakeholders, including the Uganda Traffic Police and Global Health Advocacy Incubator, participated, stressing the importance of observing slower speeds and professionalism.
Dr. Joseph Baguma, UPDN Board member, commended the Ministry of Works and Transport for reviewing speed limits, but suggested empowering local governments to reduce speed limits within their jurisdictions.
The conference concluded with a call to action, urging drivers to uphold professional ethics and conduct