If you’re planning a self-drive adventure or renting a car during your stay in Uganda, there’s something important you should know: Uganda now strictly enforces maximum speed limits on roads within urban areas, trading centres, and other built-up zones.
Whether you’re exploring Kampala, driving through Jinja, or heading to national parks via towns and cities, understanding and following these limits is crucial—not just for your safety, but also to avoid hefty fines under the country’s Express Penalty System (EPS Auto).
Here’s everything you need to know before you drive in Uganda.
Why Speed Limits Matter in Uganda
Uganda’s road safety authorities have introduced new urban speed regulations to tackle the growing risk of accidents in congested and pedestrian-heavy zones. These speed limits are designed to:
-
Protect pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users
-
Reduce the frequency and severity of crashes
-
Keep traffic flowing safely and smoothly through towns and cities
The enforcement is part of an initiative by the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), Uganda Police, and other government agencies. As a foreign driver, you are expected to observe the same rules as locals.
Official Urban Speed Limits for Different Vehicles
As a tourist, you’ll most likely rent a standard passenger car or a 4×4 SUV—possibly for a safari or cross-country trip. Here’s a breakdown of the official speed limits for common vehicle types in urban areas and highways that pass through towns.
| Type of Vehicle | Urban Roads | Highways in Urban Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger cars and dual-purpose vehicles | 30 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Motorcycles, tricycles, quadricycles | 30 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Public service vehicles and large private vans (more than 8 passengers) | 30 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Vehicles towing trailers (including some 4x4s) | 30 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Light goods vehicles (e.g., pickups) | 30 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Medium goods vehicles | 30 km/h | 50 km/h |
| Heavy goods vehicles (e.g., trucks, buses) | 30 km/h | 40 km/h |
| Tractors | 30 km/h | 40 km/h |
| Tractors with trailers & Engineering equipment | 30 km/h | 30 km/h |
What This Means for Tourists Driving in Uganda
If you’re renting a car for self-drive, these limits apply to you, especially in cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and Mbarara, and towns near major parks like Fort Portal or Kabale. Uganda’s urban speed limit is 30 km/h in built-up areas. Even on highways running through towns, you should not exceed 50 km/h in most vehicle types.
Speed traps are in place, and the Express Penalty System (EPS) uses cameras and mobile enforcement teams to issue fines. Violations are electronically recorded, and rental car companies may charge you directly or require you to settle fines before vehicle return.
Tips for Safe Driving as a Visitor
-
Stick to the speed limits: Even if the road feels clear, a camera or police officer may be nearby.
-
Watch for signage: Speed limit signs are often posted at town entrances and urban zones.
-
Drive cautiously in busy areas: Expect pedestrians, motorcycles (locally called boda bodas), and livestock near roads.
-
Ask your rental company: Before driving off, confirm the vehicle category and how speed rules apply to it.
-
Save emergency contacts: For inquiries, you can contact the ITMS at +256 743 345 084 or visit portal.itms.ug.
Conclusion
Uganda is a beautiful country to explore by road, offering scenic drives, national parks, and vibrant towns. But safety and compliance with traffic laws should always come first—especially now that speed limits in urban areas are strictly enforced. As a visiting driver, respecting these rules not only keeps you and others safe but also ensures a smoother, hassle-free travel experience.
Drive slow. Drive safe. Enjoy Uganda.
