Overview:
Launched by the Ministry of Works and Transport in collaboration with the Uganda Police Force, the ETPS uses automated surveillance technology—including high-definition cameras and number plate recognition software—to detect violations in real time at key traffic junctions and highways across major cities.
Uganda has officially rolled out a new digital traffic enforcement system designed to catch violators in real-time and curb the country’s soaring road accident rates.
The Electronic Traffic Penalty System (ETPS), launched by the Ministry of Works and Transport in partnership with the Uganda Police Force, uses surveillance cameras and number plate recognition technology to detect traffic offenses such as speeding, running red lights, and driving in restricted lanes. The system is already operational in Kampala, Entebbe, and Jinja, with a nationwide rollout planned in phases.
Transport Minister Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala said the system aims to enhance road safety, reduce human bias in traffic enforcement, and boost compliance. “This is not about punishment, but deterrence. We want to protect lives by changing driver behavior,” Katumba said at a press briefing.
When a violation is recorded, the system automatically issues a digital Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) ticket to the vehicle’s registered owner via SMS and email. The notice includes the offense details, fine amount, and payment instructions.
Motorists now have 72 hours to pay the fine. If not settled within this window, a 50% surcharge is applied. Authorities say the tighter payment window is meant to discourage delays and ensure quick resolution.
As part of the reforms, new speed limits have been introduced on several roads. In some urban zones, the limit is as low as 30 km/h. Offenders risk fines ranging from UGX 200,000 to UGX 600,000, depending on the offense’s severity and location.
The rollout has sparked mixed reactions from the public. While many road safety advocates have welcomed the system, some motorists and transporter associations argue that the changes are too abrupt.
“There’s no clarity on the new speed limits,” said one association leader. “We cannot comply with what we don’t know. Let the government erect proper signage first.”
There are also concerns about fairness, particularly for individuals whose number plates have been stolen or cloned. Since the system penalizes registered owners, some fear being fined for offenses they did not commit.
Others warn of potential traffic congestion, especially in urban areas where the new speed limits are significantly lower.
In response to criticism, the Ministry has launched a nationwide media campaign—on radio, TV, and social media—to sensitize drivers. A hotline has also been set up to help motorists contest unfair tickets or report technical issues.
Despite the pushback, authorities insist that the system is a necessary step in addressing Uganda’s troubling road safety record. The country continues to report some of the highest traffic-related fatalities in East Africa.
“Lives are being lost daily due to reckless driving. We must act,” said Gen. Katumba. “We’re calling on all motorists to respect traffic rules, not out of fear, but responsibility.”