In a bid to promote road safety awareness, Joe Walker, also known as Joseph Beyanga, has embarked on a 10-day walk from Kampala to Gulu.
Under the theme “Safe Roads Save Lives,” the initiative aims to encourage Ugandans to prioritize road safety and reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries.
The walk was flagged off on Monday morning at 6:00 a.m. at the Independence Monument and was officiated by State Minister Transport, Fred Byamukama.
The journey will take them through various towns, including Bombo, Luwero, Nakasongola, Migyera, Kafu, Kigumba, Bweyale, Kamdini, Bobi, and finally, Gulu.
Along the way, participants will engage communities in discussions on safe road use, targeting boda-boda riders, schoolchildren, law enforcement, and policymakers.
Speaking ahead of the walk, Beyanga emphasized the impact of previous initiatives. “What humbles me is when I am stopped by people while on my walks who say they are more cautious and careful while on the road,” he shared.
The choice of Gulu as the final destination highlights the city’s strategic importance as a commercial hub in Northern Uganda.
With its strong agricultural and trade ties, road safety remains crucial in ensuring the smooth movement of goods and people while reducing accident-related fatalities.
Uganda faces a significant road safety crisis, with an average of 14 lives lost daily and 70 casualties reported, according to the 2023 police report.
Reckless overtaking and speeding contribute to 52% of road accidents, underscoring the urgent need for awareness campaigns like the Kampala-Gulu walk.
The initiative aligns with the UN General Assembly’s goal of reducing road traffic deaths by 50% by 2030.
Joe Walker and his foundation have consistently championed road safety, with past initiatives including the 2022 Kampala-Bushenyi walk, the 2023 “Too Young to Die” walk to Mbale, and the 2024 “Get Home Safe” walk to Fort Portal.
This year’s walk is expected to amplify the impact of these past efforts, further solidifying the foundation’s commitment to promoting safe roads.
