Signalised junctions bring order to Kampala, but not without bumps
The initiative, funded through a ¥2.44 billion grant (about sh58 billion) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aimed to usher Kampala into a new era of smart traffic management.
Signalised junctions bring order to Kampala, but not without bumps
By Dallen Namugga
Journalists @New Vision
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In a bold move to modernise the capital’s traffic flow and reduce congestion, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) undertook a transformative project: signalising 27 junctions and removing five major roundabouts.
The initiative, funded through a ¥2.44 billion grant (about sh58 billion) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aimed to usher Kampala into a new era of smart traffic management.
The effort reflected a broader shift towards automation and sustainable urban systems. However, some city residents and business owners said the transition has been challenging and have asked for smoother changes to ensure no one is left behind.
What the project brought
The signalisation project marks the first modern smart traffic control system of its kind in East Africa, complete with a new state-of-the-art traffic control centre.
Vincent Byendaimira, director of physical planning at KCCA, explained that the decision to remove roundabouts and replace them with traffic lights was informed by detailed feasibility studies.
“Globally, junctions are either grade-separated or signalised. This was a technical decision based on traffic pressure and supported by donor funding,” he said.
In some areas, such as Mulago, business owners like boutique attendant Jethro Wilson have noticed an improvement in flow.
“There’s less jam now, which is good for movement,” Wilson said.
Motorist Sam Magola, based near Grand Imperial, added that the roads look more orderly. “It looks better, cleaner,” he noted.
Zuura Namutebi, who works at the UTEL offices at the Grand Imperial junction, acknowledged that there is more organisation since the change was made.
"As I drive now compared to before, I think it is better because the jam has reduced," she said.
Areas needing improvement
Still, the transition has not been seamless for all. Some traders and motorists say the sudden changes disrupted business and created confusion at newly redesigned junctions.