On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the city of Jinja will be transformed into a space for people to enjoy the roads. The day marks World Car Free Day, encouraging walking and other non-motorized means of transportation in areas that are usually busy due to motorized traffic.
World Car Free Day, celebrated in cities around the globe, aims to showcase a people-centered city. It also seeks to raise awareness about current road safety issues, highlight the health benefits of non-motorized transport, and promote respect for all road users.
Coop Uganda, in conjunction with Jinja City Council, Uganda Red Cross Society, and other civil society organizations, is organizing the event. In a media briefing at Jinja City Hall on Friday, organizers announced that efforts are underway to shift Jinja towards becoming a happier and healthier people-centered city.
Marieke De Wild, the Chief of Coop Uganda, stated, “On this day, roads are closed to vehicles in over 46 countries and more than 2,000 cities, and millions of people avoid using cars, opting for non-motorized means instead.”
According to her, free activities will be organized and open to the public. These include a critical mass bike ride, a bicycle ride, street play activities, and interactive awareness sessions with road users, city, and district officials.
“The Critical Mass bike ride starts from Igar Tower at 10:30 a.m., with cyclists riding an 8km route at a gentle pace, enjoying the roads and riding safely in groups. At the same time, we’ll showcase that Jinja has plenty of cyclists, and it is worth planning for safe cycling facilities,” Marieke said.
The Dutch ambassador to Uganda will be the chief rider, while the Jinja City Mayor and City Clerk will be among the dignitaries participating in the event.
Mr. Obedi Bwambale, the General Manager of Coop Uganda, emphasized the importance of cycling for health management and called for full participation in the day. He mentioned that preparations are at their peak to ensure the celebrations are a success.
Mr. Rajab Kito, the Information Officer of Jinja City Council, noted that Jinja residents are aware of the Car Free Day and are encouraged not to use motor vehicles for business purposes on that day.
“Security personnel are fully informed and will guide the movement of motor vehicles,” said Mr. Kito.
Various free activities will take place on Jinja’s Main Street, which will be temporarily closed between Bank of Africa and Jinja Police Station. Activities include a children’s bike course, bike test area, drawing contests, street chalk art, bicycle servicing, aerobics, and more.
Jinja residents are urged to participate and bring bicycles, skates, skipping ropes, and other equipment to enjoy the car-free streets. Marieke added, “By doing so, you will show planners and decision-makers that it is important to prioritize people over cars when developing the city.”
This will be the third edition of Jinja’s participation in World Car Free Day. Championed by Coop Uganda, Jinja and Kampala are the major cities in Uganda that celebrate this day.
Obedi also informed the media that after the cycling race, the Dutch ambassador will lead the screening of a film showing the evolution of cycling in the Netherlands.
