You may have noticed new yellow criss-cross markings at several busy road intersections in Kigali. These markings, known as Yellow Box junctions, are designed to ease traffic congestion and keep intersections clear for smoother vehicle movement. What is a Yellow Box? A Yellow Box is a square or rectangular area marked with diagonal yellow lines at road junctions. Its purpose, according to Rwanda National Police, is to prevent vehicles from blocking intersections—one of the common causes of traffic jams in urban centres. ALSO READ: Embracing technology to enhance road safety is timely The system also ensures free passage for emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks. To strengthen enforcement, Yellow Box junctions are now monitored by surveillance cameras. How it Works The rule is simple: do not stop in a Yellow Box. Drivers should only enter the marked area when they are certain the exit is clear and they can drive through without stopping. This requires attentiveness to traffic lights and resisting pressure from other drivers to move forward when there is no space ahead. Following another vehicle blindly into the box could trap you in the middle of the intersection—and that’s an offence. ALSO READ: Traffic cameras to track other traffic offences As stipulated in Presidential Decree No. 85/01 of 2002, drivers must leave intersections promptly when traffic lights permit but without obstructing vehicles moving in other authorized directions. Enforcement and Penalties Rwanda National Police (RNP), working with the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), has rolled out a new campaign to raise awareness about Yellow Boxes and their role in improving traffic flow. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, the Police Spokesperson, stressed that the markings serve a clear purpose: “Drivers must only proceed into a Yellow Box when they are absolutely sure the exit is clear and traffic ahead is moving. This is crucial in preventing vehicles from blocking intersections, especially during peak traffic hours.” ALSO READ: ‘Gerayo Amahoro’ road safety campaign returns Violators risk penalties, as smart surveillance cameras automatically detect and fine offenders. The cameras also monitor other offences, including driving without seatbelts, using a phone while driving, lacking valid insurance, and stopping on pedestrian crosswalks. Technology and awareness campaign The Yellow Box initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to integrate smart technology into road safety management. Surveillance cameras and real-time traffic monitoring are being deployed at key junctions. A public awareness campaign was recently launched at the Gishushu intersection in Gasabo District, where officials engaged drivers on the importance of respecting Yellow Box rules. A global concept Yellow Box junctions are not new. They were first introduced in the United Kingdom in the 1950s to prevent gridlock at busy intersections. Over time, the system proved effective and spread to many countries, especially in high-traffic cities. By adopting this measure, Rwanda joins other nations in using proven traffic management tools to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance the efficiency of urban mobility.
