We have partnered with Next Media, the Ministry of Works & Transport, Uganda Police, and Consult Afrika Usalama to launch the #LinnyaStep campaign aimed at reducing the number of road crashes involving boda bodas. According to The Daily Monitor Newspaper, boda bodas account for 44.5% of all road deaths in Uganda.
The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Edward Wamala, commended the initiative for its alignment with the government’s efforts to reduce road crashes by 50% by a certain year. “Despite our commitment to the UN, the number of accidents has been increasing over the years,” he stated.
SP Michael Kananura, the PRO of the Directorate of Traffic & Road Safety, confirmed the severity of the issue, reporting 1,719 fatalities and 4,250 injuries due to road crashes this year. He highlighted the alarming statistic of 20 riders and 12 passengers losing their lives in accidents within just one week. “While we have implemented enforcement measures, sensitization is crucial to effectively address this problem,” he said.
Njuki Emmanuel, our Head of Legal and Corporate Affairs, explained the company’s motivation for the campaign. “We aspire to create a future with safer roads, not only in Uganda but globally. We recognize the valuable service provided by boda bodas but also acknowledge the inherent risks associated with this mode of transportation,” he stated.
This is not the first time Nile Breweries has been involved in road safety initiatives. In 2022, the company conducted the Ondaba Road Safety campaign, which trained boda boda riders in first aid and safe riding practices.
“This year, we are focusing on enhancing the safety of both riders and passengers,” Njuki added. “We have already launched a campaign urging our consumers to avoid drinking and driving.”
Joseph Kigozi, the Deputy Group CEO of Next Media, emphasized the role of passengers in ensuring safe journeys. “Passengers have the power to influence riders’ behavior,” he stated. “It’s illogical to spend UGX 2,000 on a boda boda to save time only to incur a hospital bill of UGX 10,000,000.” He encouraged passengers to wear helmets and actively participate in their safety.
The #LinnyaStep campaign will run until the end of the year, with a particular focus on the upcoming festive season, a period known for increased accidents. Nile Breweries remains committed to driving positive behavioral changes within the community and encourages other stakeholders and businesses to join this important cause.