UHVI Officially Launches with Motorbike Procession and Celebrity Ambassadors
23/08/2011
The Uganda Helmet Vaccine Initiative (UHVI) had its public launch on 23rd August 2011. The highlight of this successful event was an impressive motorcycle procession around Kampala to Pan African Square, the capital's center.
Baseline research conducted by the Injury Control Center Uganda (ICCU) shows that 30% of boda-boda drivers in Kampala wear helmets, while passenger helmet use is as low as 0,08%. The launch of UHVI sets the stage for the program's planned implementation of a wide-reaching public awareness campaign targeting boda-boda riders and passengers, and establishing a strong base of stakeholders who will work together to further improve Uganda's road traffic safety situation.
Joining the procession to spread awareness about road traffic safety were the Uganda Police Traffic Department, UHVI's Goodwill Ambassadors singer Bobi Wine and motorsport celebrity Arthur Blick, the Bikers Association of Uganda, and boda-boda (motorbike taxi) drivers. Speakers following the procession included the Minister of Works and Transport, the Minister of Health, the Police Inspector General, UHVI members, and Goodwill Ambassadors. Speeches highlighted the drastic need to reduce road traffic fatalities and injuries in Uganda, the Ugandan government's support of UHVI, and the need for all boda-boda riders to consistently wear helmets.
