The former MP for Bukoto South, Dr Twaha Kagabo, has criticised the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) over what he described as poor city management, saying it is one of the major causes of the persistent traffic congestion in Kampala.
Speaking to Bbeg Media, Kagabo said Kampala’s traffic problem is not caused by the number of vehicles on the roads but by poor urban planning and management.
“We do not have as many cars as Nairobi and other major cities around the world, but our biggest challenge in Kampala is traffic congestion,” Kagabo said.
He argued that the city’s physical planning is inadequate and does not support efficient business operations. He said this has contributed significantly to the traffic jams experienced daily by motorists and commuters.
Kagabo noted that Kampala lacks sufficient parking spaces for vehicles entering the city. He also pointed to the narrow road network, which he said is struggling to accommodate motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
He called on KCCA and the government to redesign Kampala’s development plans and create a clear distinction between the capital city and the commercial district.
According to Kagabo, improved urban planning would require new buildings to incorporate underground parking facilities and provide for the construction of more bridges and flyovers to ease traffic flow.
He also proposed amendments to existing traffic laws to restrict certain categories of vehicles from accessing the city centre during peak hours. In addition, he criticised some traffic police officers, saying they lack adequate knowledge of their duties.
Kagabo revealed that he has opted to use a motorcycle for transport in Kampala because it enables him to avoid traffic congestion.
He said traffic jams pose a serious challenge to ambulances transporting patients in emergency situations.
Despite owning an official vehicle provided by Parliament, Kagabo said he finds riding a motorcycle more convenient.
