I won’t sugercoart it — Uganda is considered as one of the counties in the world that are not easy to drive in, and cities like Kampala, Mbarara, Jinja and other tend to be chaotic during peak hours of the day that is early morning when people are going for work and evening hours when they are returning from work.
Though the traffic jam and chaotic moments occurs in townships areas that most tourists and visitors always don’t travel through. Even so, it’s important to stay cautious when driving in Uganda, particularly at night. Here are some problems you should keep in mind.
Matatus
Matatu on Kampala-Masaka Highway
Matatus, the shared minibuses mostly used for public transport in Uganda, they are very important for daily commuting. However, they are also known for their highly aggressive driving style, they usually overtake unexpectedly, weave between lanes, and may swerve into your lane without warning. It is not uncommon for them to ignore traffic signals, including red lights, and they drive like there is no tomorrow. Because of this unpredictable behavior, other road users should remain alert, maintain a safe distance, and always be careful when driving near matatus.
Car Windows
When driving in city centers like Kampala, Masaka, Jinja or any other cities in the country, keep your windows rolled up and doors locked, especially at traffic lights or in heavy traffic jam. This simple habit safe your phones or bags being snatched by opportunists.
Keeping Your Valuables Safe in Uganda
Keep your valuable items like phones, cameras, or jewelry, especially in busy places or at night out of sight, when leaving the car, don’t leave anything visible inside when you park. Even parking area safe, it’s safer to take everything with you. Thieves may break your car window just because they have seen something in the car like a camera or 10$ note bill. Fixing a broken window can be expensive and take time, so carry your valuables with you or store them in a hotel safe.
Avoid Driving at night
Night Driving in Uganda
Driving at night during a self-drive safari in Uganda is risky and should be avoided when possible. Ugandan Roads are dark, with little or no street lighting, and hazards like potholes, sharp turns, and speed bumps are hard to see. You may also encounter unlit bicycles, pedestrians, and broken-down vehicles. If your car breaks down late at night, getting help can be very difficult. Plan your trip so you arrive at your lodge or campsite by around 6:00 PM, before it gets dark, to stay safe and avoid problems.
Trust your eyes, not the traffic lights
In Uganda, you have the right of way, always look both side of the road first even when crossing a one-way road. Drivers often ignore red lights, so don’t depend only on the traffic lights only and its also a common act seeing motocyclisit drivinng in the one-way lane. Stay alert and cross when there is a safe gap in traffic, not just when the light changes.