Traffic bodies in Kampala Metropolitan Area have intensified inter-agency coordination to restore traffic flow on the Masaka-Kampala highway in Mpigi following an unprecedented congestion that paralysed the route.
The congestion, which started on Monday afternoon, stretched through Mpigi, Butambala and surrounding areas as heavy weekend traffic from western Uganda.
Several motorists reported journeys lasting more than 12 hours, with some spending the night in their vehicles.
In a statement issued, on Tuesday, 30th December 2025, the Ministry of Works and Transport acknowledged the disruption and said measures had been put in place to restore normal traffic flow.
The ministry advised motorists to use alternative routes to reduce pressure on the highway.
“Dear motorists, the existing travel alternatives including Mpigi-Kasanji-Nakawuka to Entebbe/Kampala and Mpigi-Kanoni-Gomba-Ssembabule-Villamaria for traffic heading to Masaka are beginning to offer some traffic relief,” the statement read.
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety said officers had been deployed on the ground to manage traffic and guide motorists.
SP Michael Kananura traffic Police spokesperson urged drivers to remain calm and cooperate with authorities.
“All efforts are underway to sort the heavy traffic congestion in Mpigi. We urge motorists to remain calm and patient,” Kananura said.
“Vehicles heading to Kampala had been diverted to use the Kasanje-Nakawuka route, while those travelling to Masaka were redirected through Gomba-Sembabule Kananura added.
Motorists welcomed the intervention but said it came after prolonged delays.
Ashaba William said that people slept in their cars, some ran out of fuel, and there was no movement for hours.
“From Mpigi, the traffic completely stopped. We spent the whole night on the road,” Ashaba added.
Government officials dismissed claims that political activities caused the gridlock, saying no prolonged road closures were authorised.
Authorities said they are reviewing the incident to strengthen inter-agency coordination and improve traffic management during peak travel periods.
