By The Ministry of Works and Transport has officially enforced the Traffic and Road Safety (Speed Limit) Regulations, 2024, which now impose steeper penalties for anyone caught exceeding speed limits even by just 1 kilometer per hour.
In a public notice issued via their official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Ministry indicated that 1-30 km/h above the speed limit attracts a fine of UGX 200,000
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This means that any motorist exceeding a posted speed limit whether by a seemingly harmless 1 km/h or a more aggressive 29 km/h faces an immediate fine of UGX 200,000.
Those who exceed speed limits by 30 km/h or more will be hit even harder, with a UGX 600,000 fine.
For instance, If you’re cruising at 100 km/h on the Northern Bypass where the limit is 70 km/h that’s a 30 km/h violation. You’ll have to pay UGX 600,000. Similarly, driving at 60 km/h on the Lugogo Bypass, where the speed limit is 30 km/h, will also cost you UGX 600,000.
“That’s 30 currency points out of your wallet, not the old 10 currency points”- the Ministry emphasized
The move is part of a broader national strategy to curb road accidents, which remain a leading cause of death in Uganda. By tightening the enforcement window and increasing penalties, the government aims to deter reckless driving and enhance road safety.
Road safety advocates have long called for stricter measures, citing indiscipline and overspeeding as chronic issues. These new regulations may be the government’s answer combining technology (through speed cameras and traffic monitoring systems) with legal teeth.
Despite the government’s road safety push, the public response has been largely critical. Social media was abuzz with complaints and skepticism about the feasibility and fairness of the new regulations.
“Does this apply only to the general public? Because government vehicles are the most offenders on the road,” wrote user Ambrose Rekon, expressing concerns over double standards in enforcement.
William McKinley, another user, stated bluntly: “30Kph is too slow. Urgently process amendment to the Regulations.”
Some users feared the rules would be exploited for extortion by law enforcement officers. “Imagine driving at less than 30km/hr at Lugogo Bypass!.. is that even possible if we are to be realistic!!!” said Kiyemba Mathew.
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Muhoozi Dickson called the new fines “pathetic,” arguing, “The architects of this speed limit exceeding range must have thought of ways to fleece money from drivers on Ugandan roads.”
Others, like Collins Mugume, pointed to practical challenges. “Without road signage to clarify this information, we shall have HUGE issues.”
As the debate continues online and on the roads, many are waiting to see how effectively and fairly the new laws will be implemented.
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