Traffic Police has issued a fresh warning to motorists as millions of learners return to school for the third term of 2026.
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety says the reopening of schools will bring heavier traffic around school gates, highways, pedestrian crossings and other busy areas, putting children at greater risk.
Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura has urged drivers to take their feet off the accelerator and give children extra care on the roads.
Kananura warned that children are vulnerable road users and may not be able to correctly judge how fast a vehicle is moving or how far away it is.
That means a child can step onto the road believing there is enough time to cross, only for a speeding vehicle to arrive within seconds.
Motorists have therefore been told to slow down around schools and pedestrian crossings and stop dangerous driving habits that could turn the school run into a tragedy.
Traffic Police is particularly warning against reckless driving, dangerous overtaking and distracted driving.
Drivers are also being reminded to stay off the wheel when drunk.
Kananura wants parents and school administrators to ensure children travel in safe, inspected and authorised vehicles.
School buses and other school vehicles must be roadworthy, properly licensed and driven by qualified drivers.
Schools have also been asked to sensitise learners about road safety and properly organise pick-up and drop-off points to prevent dangerous congestion around school gates.
Traffic Police says children should use designated pedestrian crossings where available and avoid distractions while walking or crossing roads. Before crossing, they should look right, left and right again.
Where there is no pavement or walkway, learners should walk facing oncoming traffic so they can see approaching vehicles.
Kananura says the safety of children cannot be left to motorists alone. And his message to drivers is simple: do not drive as though you own the road.
Instead, drive as though you own the car and understand that other people’s lives are in your hands.
“There is no journey that is more important than a child’s life,” Kananura warned.
As the third term begins, Traffic Police is calling for patience, discipline and extra vigilance from everyone using the roads.
The Ministry of Education and Sports has already confirmed that schools following the national curriculum will reopen for third term on Monday, September 14, with the term running until December 4.
Boarding schools in Kampala, Wakiso, Mpigi and Mukono have been advised to stagger reporting dates for different classes over two to three days to help ease the expected traffic congestion.
