Driving in Kampala especially in the rush hours can be extremely challenging. The cars, motorcyclists and pedestrians can make a mess of a jam in the city. We give you these Kampala Traffic Jam Tips to help you avoid it, beat it or put up with it. In this comprehensive guide, we look at What Causes it and How to avoid traffic Jam in Uganda.
Understanding the problem of Traffic Jam In Kampala.
Kampala is a vibrant capital city and the only city of its size in Uganda. Its both the political and commercial headquarters of the country. This has inevitably led to massive numbers moving from villages to this city in search for jobs, business and social services.
Apart from the huge number of its residents, the city also gets a significant number of visitors from both upcountry and outside the country. Inevitably, there is increasing stress on the road network that often leads to traffic jam in the rush hours.
Its worth noting that apart from the normal rush hour traffic jam, you should expect a surge in traffic on rainy days. Particularly, you should expect traffic jam in Kampala for at least two hours after a downpour.
Main Causes of Traffic Jam in Kampala.
Population Growth and Urbanization: The number one cause for traffic jam in Kampala has been the city’s rapid increase in its population. With over 6 million people staying in Kampala and her two near neighbor suburbs of Wakiso and Mukono, the city experiences a significant demand for transportation services. This particularly the case in the mornings between 7 and 11Am and in the evening between 5 and 8Pm.
Inadequate Public Transportation Options: The people of Kampala majorly depend on an informal public transport system. Mobility is provided mainly by privately owned matatus (14 seater minibuses) and boda bodas (motorcycle taxis). The sheer number and driver indiscipline contributes to disorderly traffic flow in the city worsening the Jam situation.
Poor Traffic Management: Although traffic police is visibly present on the road, one may think that the numbers do not match the traffic on the road. There is a general inadequate traffic enforcement and regulation contribute to chaotic driving behavior. In particular the matatus and boda-bodas tend to drive recklessly, exercise lane indiscipline, and disregard for traffic rules leading to inefficiencies at intersections.
Poor Road Infrastructure: While the city population grows by day and night, the same can not be said about the increase in road infrastructure. Kampala’s road network is insufficient to accommodate the growing number of vehicles, resulting in congestion, especially during peak hours. Many city roads are also narrow and ridden with potholes. This means that you will need to use these Uganda Traffic Jam Tips to help you beat the jam and reach your destination in time.
Kampala Traffic Jam Tips.
But not all hope is lost! With these driving tips you will be able to navigate your way in Kampala city and enjoy your adventure without the unnecessary road rage that often comes with excessive traffic jam.
Avoid Rush Hours If You Can: While this might not be practical all the time, it could save you some unnecessary hold ups in Jam. Plan your travel in the city well to avoid the morning and evening rush hour if you can. As already stated the morning rush hours are between 7 to 11Am while the Evening rush hours are 5 to 8Pm.
Start your Trip Early: The best way to avoid traffic jam stress is to have extra time on your hands. If you plan to cross through the city, it might be useful either to do so before the rush hours or to have some extra time. You typically need two hours on an average traffic jammed day to cross through the city. Travel in time to avoid delays and disappointments.
Stay in your right Lane: Well while it might be tempting to get a quick exit on the shoulders, its extremely risky and might keep you waiting longer than if you stayed in your lane. Besides risking a ticket for careless driving, you also run a risk of knocking one of the numerous moto cyclists that crisscross through the Jam.
Use Alternative Roads: This may be challenging to non resident travelers but if you have one of our drivers, they should have several alternative routes to your destination in Kampala, Uganda. Ask your driver to avoid the heart of the city whenever practical. You may also make use of Google maps to locate which roads are jammed and locate better alternative roads to help you move faster.
Get a motor cycle: Ok this should be your last resort. If everything else fails, get a Boda-boda. These motor cyclists know the city in and out so they will have options. They are further aided by the fact they can easily squeeze into the traffic and pass. But in there lies the risk. Be sure to wear your helmet and always demand that they exercise more caution.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, traffic congestion in Kampala is a complex and multifaceted problem driven by population growth, inadequate infrastructure, poor transportation policies, and behavioral factors. While its beyond your powers to know when the jam might get heavier than usual, you can plan your travel better to have a smoother movement while in Uganda.
