As I walk through the
surgical wards of Mulago Hospital, I notice one thing in common amongst most
patients. All these patients are here, and others are coming, due to boda boda*
related accidents. Out of curiosity, I find out that 7 out of the 10 patients
admitted with severe head injuries have been involved in Boda boda accidents.
This reminds me that I have lost 2 relatives and 3 friends through boda boda
related accidents. Last week as I was taking my evening work along the heavily
congested streets of Wandegeya, negotiating between vendors, pedestrians, boda
bodas and motor cars, I witnessed 2 accidents. One was terrible, where the boda
boda knocked the car head on, and the passenger fell to the ground, lying unconscious.
The cyclist then picked up his ride and dashed off.
With no clear
solution, it is clearly evident that a problem exists. Trauma is the leading
cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. The exact percentage of boda boda
related trauma is not clearly established. However in Uganda, specifically in Kampala,
the capital city, the leading cause of accidents is boda boda.
Yet, the boda boda is
one item you can’t do without. You can be able to move from City Square through
wandegeya to Kamwokya in about 12 minutes on a boda boda, despite the traffic
Jam. And the convenience that comes with the fresh air along the trip, no
delays at traffic lights etc, etc. When you are late for an appointment, your
immediate savior is the boda boda.
However in an attempt
to save the 15 minutes, many have ended up in hospital for up to 6 months.
Others have even lost their lives.
Trust me the solution
is not to ban the Boda bodas or shun their usage. The Idea is, that boda boda
cyclists should follow the guidelines followed by other motorists. Let them
respect traffic lights, zebra crossing, road signs, should not climb the
pavements, cyclists and passengers should put on helmets, etc, etc. Don’t you
think this would reduce on the boda boda accidents?
*Boda
boda – a motorcycle
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