About CISCOT

CISCOT adopts a proactive, collaborative, and evidence-based approach in engaging the Government of Uganda and other stakeholders to strengthen the transport and urban development sector. Our work is grounded in the belief that effective systems must be accountable, transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of citizens.

A central pillar of our approach is supporting and promoting robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) frameworks for transport and urban development initiatives. We actively engage with government institutions to contribute to the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of M&E systems that track progress, assess impact, and ensure value for public investment.

We place strong emphasis on accountability and transparency by advocating for regular data collection, open reporting, and inclusive review processes. Through this, we help ensure that transport policies and projects are not only well-implemented but also deliver meaningful and measurable outcomes for communities across Uganda.

Community engagement is at the heart of our work. CISCOT amplifies citizens’ voices by creating platforms for public participation, ensuring that the lived experiences, concerns, and priorities of Ugandans inform decision-making processes. We believe that inclusive dialogue leads to more equitable and sustainable transport solutions.

In addition, we invest in capacity building for civil society actors, community leaders, and stakeholders to enhance their ability to effectively participate in monitoring, advocacy, and policy engagement. This strengthens collective oversight and fosters a culture of shared responsibility in the transport sector.

Through strategic partnerships, policy advocacy, and citizen-driven engagement, CISCOT continues to play a vital role in shaping transport and urban development initiatives that are safe, efficient, inclusive, and aligned with Uganda’s national development goals.

The Civil Society Coalition on Transport (CISCOT) Uganda is an umbrella organization comprising 32 civil society organisations operating in the transport sector in Uganda. CISCOT was created in 2013 with the aim of contributing to an efficient, effective and safe transport system in the country. It was formed to build a collective, strong and coherent citizens voice to positively influence the development of the transport sector in Uganda.

CISCOT represents the interests of citizens and the public and provides a platform to project the views of communities on issues pertaining to transport and infrastructure services affecting them.

CISCOT was founded in 2013 by a group of committed individuals who recognized the urgent need for a unified and independent voice to address the growing transport challenges affecting Ugandans. Their vision was to bring together civil society actors to advocate for safer, more inclusive, and accountable transport systems across the country.

With initial support from the CROSS ROADS Programme, funded by UK Aid, CISCOT began as a loose coalition comprising 18 institutional organizations and six individual members. This early collaboration laid a strong foundation for collective action, enabling members to amplify citizen voices and engage more effectively with policymakers and stakeholders in the transport sector.

As the coalition grew in strength, relevance, and reach, CISCOT transitioned into a fully registered non-governmental organization, strengthening its governance structures and expanding its scope of work.

Since its establishment, CISCOT has played a pivotal role in policy advocacy, actively contributing to the development and review of legislation and policies related to transport in Uganda. The organization has consistently championed reforms aimed at improving road safety, enhancing public transport systems, and promoting sustainable mobility.

In addition, CISCOT has organized and implemented numerous road safety campaigns, community outreach programs, and public sensitization initiatives. These efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness and promoting behavior change, all geared toward reducing road crashes and saving lives on Uganda’s roads.

Today, CISCOT continues to serve as a leading platform for civil society engagement in the transport sector, working collaboratively to shape a safer, more efficient, and people-centered transport system for all Ugandans.

CISCOT stands as a key stakeholder in Uganda’s transport ecosystem, uniquely positioned to contribute meaningfully to the objectives of the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) and the broader aspirations of Vision 2040. Our strength lies in our ability to bridge the gap between policy and practice, linking government priorities with the real needs and experiences of citizens.

With a proven track record in monitoring transport projects, advocating for transparency and accountability, and mobilizing communities, CISCOT brings credible, evidence-based insights to government and other stakeholders. Over the years, the coalition has consistently influenced policy dialogue and practice, helping to shape transport systems that are safer, more sustainable, and more equitable for all Ugandans.

What sets CISCOT apart is its strong grassroots foundation combined with strategic national-level engagement. We amplify citizen voices while constructively engaging government institutions, ensuring that development initiatives are both people-centered and results-driven.

Our partnership with Government of Uganda Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) presents a transformative opportunity to accelerate progress in the transport sector. By aligning CISCOT’s advocacy, research, and community engagement strengths with government policy direction and resource capacity, this collaboration can deliver high-impact outcomes.

Together, we can advance a transport system that is efficient, inclusive, resilient, and aligned with Uganda’s long-term development goals, driving socio-economic transformation and improving the quality of life for all.

CISCOT continues to play a vital role in shaping Uganda’s transport sector through both national dialogue and practical, on-the-ground action. Our work is driven by a commitment to creating a transport system that is safe, inclusive, affordable, and sustainable for all Ugandans.

We have made significant contributions in the following areas:

• Enhancing road safety: Championing initiatives and campaigns that reduce road crashes, save lives, and promote responsible road use.
• Promoting accessible and affordable transport: Advocating for transport systems that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens, including vulnerable and underserved communities.
• Providing technical support to government: Offering advisory services, research, and evidence-based recommendations to strengthen planning and implementation of transport and urban development initiatives.
• Empowering communities: Equipping citizens with knowledge, tools, and platforms to effectively engage in advocacy and hold duty bearers accountable.
• Influencing policy and regulatory frameworks: Actively contributing to the development and review of policies, laws, and national guidelines that govern the transport sector.
• Advancing sustainable urban development: Promoting environmentally responsible transport solutions that align with climate goals and support resilient cities.

Through strategic projects, strong partnerships, and continuous public engagement, CISCOT is helping to shape Uganda’s mobility landscape, driving progress toward a future that is safer, more resilient, and inclusive for everyone.