At least 63 individuals lost their lives in a tragic collision involving two buses in Uganda, resulting in a massive pile-up on a highway. The fatal incident occurred when the two buses, traveling in opposite directions, attempted to overtake other vehicles but collided head-on. One of the buses swerved across the road in an attempt to avoid a crash, only to collide with the other bus. Both vehicles were carrying numerous passengers at the time of the accident.
The collision led to a chain reaction, causing both buses to become twisted wreckage on the highway, with oncoming cars skidding and flipping in an attempt to avoid the chaotic scene. Upon arrival at the Kitaleba village site, rescue teams found numerous injured travelers on the roadside. Authorities express concerns that the casualty count may rise as many passengers sustained severe injuries.
The tragic crash occurred shortly after midnight, with images from the scene depicting one bus completely destroyed. Additionally, a car was seen flipped onto its side, while workers were clearing debris and twisted metal from the wreckage. Among the other vehicles involved in the collision were a Toyota and a Tata lorry truck. Injured passengers were promptly transported to a hospital in Kiryandongo, and an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the accident.
According to a police statement, the collision occurred as both buses attempted overtaking maneuvers in the process. Authorities are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, particularly avoiding dangerous and reckless overtaking, which remains a significant cause of accidents in the country.
Uganda has witnessed a concerning trend of fatal road crashes, often attributed to narrow roads and speeding drivers. In a recent incident in August, a bus carrying mourners from a funeral in southwestern Kenya overturned, resulting in the death of at least 25 individuals and injuries to several others.
In 2024, 5,144 individuals were reported killed in road crashes in Uganda, a significant increase from previous years. Official police data indicate a rise in the number of fatalities and injuries resulting from road accidents. Careless overtaking and speeding were identified as contributing factors in 44.5% of documented crashes in 2024, as per the latest police crime report.