KAMPALA CYCLING DAY TAKES ON MAKINDYE DIVISION

The usually busy streets of Makindye Division were transformed into a cycling track on Friday morning as residents, city leaders, and partners gathered for the monthly Kampala Cycling Day.

For the first time in two years, the event was moved from its traditional home at City Hall to Makindye, a shift meant to take the message of sustainable transport and healthy living closer to communities.

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki flagged off the ride, reminding participants of the Authority’s commitment to making Kampala a cycling-friendly city.

“When designing our roads, we ensure to include non-motorized lanes. We are intentional about providing space for cycling because adopting cycling is very important, not just for health but also for the environment,” Buzeki said.

Her remarks were echoed by Makindye Division Mayor Kasirye Nganda, who rallied residents to embrace cycling as both a lifestyle and a solution to congestion.

KCCA’s Director of Public Health and Environment, Dr. Sarah Zalwango, highlighted the direct health benefits of cycling.

“Cycling helps prevent lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. It also improves air quality and supports a cleaner environment,” Zalwango explained.

The environmental perspective was reinforced by Eng. Jacob Byamukama, Deputy Director for Transport and Traffic Management at KCCA, who revealed that the city has a comprehensive master plan for cycling infrastructure.

“Roads like Salaama will have cycling lane while Archer, Jinja road, Kampala Flyover already have cycling lanes, and Lumumba Avenue has been redesigned with cycling in mind. We are steadily creating a safe and sustainable network for cyclists,” Byamukama said.

The day’s activities attracted residents, wellness enthusiasts, and young people, all cycling through Makindye in colorful gear. The Town Clerk, Thomas Ssentongo, applauded the initiative, noting that it promotes unity, fitness, and awareness about climate change.

The event was supported by partners including ebee, Uganda Police, OQATA Wellness Solutions, and Fun Cycling Uganda, represented by Ras Ssali, who urged more divisions to champion cycling.

“We need to start promoting cycling across all divisions. It is about saving the environment, staying fit, and building a culture of healthy living,” Ssali said.

With Kampala battling traffic congestion, poor air quality, and rising health risks linked to inactivity, the monthly Cycling Day is fast becoming a beacon of what a greener, healthier, and more mobile capital city could look like.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer