KISORO, UGANDA – Boda boda operators in Kisoro District have made a passionate appeal to the government to urgently construct speed humps and widen a notorious section of the Kisoro-Kabale road, following a series of fatal accidents that have claimed multiple lives.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Kisoro United Boda Boda Operators (KUBO) are targeting the area near Airland Hotel in Nyakabande Sub-County, where a sharp, narrow corner has become a dreaded black spot for motorists.
The KUBO General Secretary, Mr. Baker Batamukoraho, revealed that their office records indicate a distressing number of deaths directly linked to over-speeding and the perilous geometry of the corner.
The call was galvanized by a recent tragic accident on Thursday evening, which claimed the lives of two residents from Nyarusiza Sub-county.
Batamukoraho called for a collaborative effort between government leaders and other stakeholders to address the safety hazard once and for all.
Cue in: Batamukoraho on government. RR
“Our office reports show a high number of deaths from over-speeding and a dangerously narrow corner. There is an urgent need to widen the road and install speed humps to prevent further loss of life. This is not just a request; it is a cry from the community,” Batamukoraho stated.
Batamukoraho appealed to fellow riders to avoid night travel and refrain from parking in dark, isolated areas of Kisoro Municipality. This warning comes in response to a noticeable rise in robberies and assaults targeting operators.
Furthermore, the General Secretary cautioned them against financial irresponsibility, reminding them that their motorcycles are their primary source of income.
Cue in: Batamukoraho on Boda-Boda safety RR
“I want to caution our members against prioritizing luxuries over safeguarding their motorcycles. We must remember that this motorcycle is not just a bike; it is the main source of livelihood for our families. We must protect our investment and ensure our safety to continue providing for our loved ones,” Batamukoraho added.
The appeal from KUBO underscores the dual challenges faced by boda boda operators in the region: navigating dangerous road infrastructure and protecting themselves from rising crime.