Africa-Press – Uganda. The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has cautioned Ugandans against excessive celebrations during the Christmas festive season, warning that unchecked excitement often leads to reckless behaviour, road accidents, and fatalities.
Mayiga made the remarks at Bulange, Mengo, during the handover of Shs435 million raised by the Buganda Kingdom for the construction of an emergency ward and treatment centre at Nkozi Hospital.
The funds were mobilised through the Kaliisoliiso fundraising dinner.
The emergency facility is intended primarily to handle victims of road traffic accidents, particularly along the busy Masaka highway, which has historically recorded a high number of crashes during festive periods.
“As we celebrate Christmas, people should not lose their sense of responsibility,” Mayiga said.
“Extreme excitement leads some to drink excessively, drive recklessly, and disregard traffic rules, which often ends in tragedy.”
He urged the public to remain disciplined, exercise caution, and strictly observe traffic laws and road safety regulations to protect lives during the festive season.
The Katikkiro also commended the Church for its continued commitment to improving public health through the establishment and management of hospitals, noting that such initiatives play a vital role in saving lives.
He called on the public, institutions, and the private sector to continue supporting health-related projects that serve communities.
Dr Crescent Ahimbisibwe of Nkozi Hospital briefed the Kingdom leadership on the progress of the construction works, revealing that the first phase of the emergency unit is nearing completion. She added that construction of the second phase will commence soon after, subject to the availability of funds.
Several development partners, including MTN Uganda, pledged support towards the successful completion of the project.
Meanwhile, members of the Kaliisoliiso fundraising organising committee, led by Mr Kawoya Mwebe, said they have rolled out various sensitisation strategies aimed at educating Kabaka’s subjects on accident prevention, especially during the festive season when travel and social activities increase.
The Buganda Kingdom’s intervention comes as road safety agencies repeatedly warn of a spike in accidents during festive periods, underscoring the need for collective responsibility to ensure a safe Christmas and New Year.
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