Uganda Highway Tragedy: 46 Killed in Deadly Multi-Vehicle Crash on Kampala-Gulu Road
A devastating road accident on Uganda’s Kampala-Gulu Highway has claimed the lives of 46 people, according to the Uganda Police Force. The deadly crash, which involved multiple vehicles, has been described as one of the country’s worst traffic disasters in recent years.
Authorities initially reported 63 fatalities, but later revised the figure downward after discovering that some individuals initially believed to be dead were actually unconscious and receiving medical treatment in nearby hospitals.
How the Tragic Crash Unfolded
The accident occurred shortly after midnight (00:15 local time, 21:15 GMT) when two passenger buses traveling in opposite directions collided head-on while attempting to overtake a lorry and a private car.
According to a police statement, one of the buses swerved in an effort to avoid the collision but instead caused a “head-on and side collision”, leading to a chain reaction that sent several other vehicles veering off the road and overturning.
The crash left a horrific scene of mangled metal and scattered debris along the highway. Emergency responders and bystanders rushed to help the injured, while police and rescue teams worked through the night to retrieve bodies and transport victims to nearby hospitals.
Police Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident, which preliminary reports link to dangerous overtaking—a persistent problem on Ugandan highways.
In an official statement, police confirmed that the injured passengers were taken to hospitals in Kiryandongo, a town located in the western region of the country, for treatment.
“We are working closely with health and emergency services to verify the numbers and ensure accurate updates as investigations continue,” the Uganda Police Force said.
The regional police spokesperson, Julius Hakiiza, told the BBC that the collision was triggered when one of the buses attempted to overtake another vehicle and collided head-on with a bus coming from the opposite direction.
“Four vehicles were involved in the accident,” Hakiiza added, confirming that a lorry, two buses, and a private car were all part of the crash sequence.
President Museveni Expresses Condolences
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni expressed his deep sorrow following news of the tragedy, describing it as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving on the nation’s highways.
“I have learnt of the tragic accident with great sadness,” Museveni said in a statement. “My deepest condolences go out to the families who have lost their loved ones in this terrible event.”
The president also announced financial assistance for the victims and their families. Each bereaved family will receive five million Ugandan shillings (approximately $1,430 / £1,070) in compensation, while those injured in the crash will receive one million shillings (around $285 / £214).
Museveni urged drivers to exercise caution and patience, emphasizing that dangerous overtaking and speeding continue to be major causes of fatal crashes across the country.
Kampala-Gulu Highway: A Busy but Dangerous Route
The Kampala-Gulu Highway, stretching from the capital city Kampala in the south to Gulu in northern Uganda, is one of the country’s busiest transport corridors. The road serves as a key commercial link between central and northern Uganda, frequently used by long-distance buses, heavy trucks, and private vehicles.
However, despite its importance, the highway has gained notoriety for its poor road safety record. Frequent speeding, overtaking on blind curves, and fatigue among long-distance drivers contribute to regular accidents along the route.
Local residents have long called for improved road safety measures, including better signage, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and the construction of dual carriageways to separate lanes for opposing traffic.
Following the recent tragedy, the Uganda Police Force once again urged motorists to avoid reckless overtaking and speeding, warning that such behavior remains “one of the leading causes of road crashes in the country.”
Emergency Response and Community Grief
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and heartbreak as emergency responders worked through the night to help survivors. Some survivors recounted being trapped inside overturned buses as rescuers cut through twisted metal to pull them out.
Residents of nearby villages also joined the rescue efforts, using personal vehicles to transport victims to hospitals before ambulances arrived.
Hospitals in Kiryandongo and surrounding areas have been overwhelmed with injured passengers, prompting calls for blood donations and medical supplies.
One survivor, speaking to local media, said:
“Everything happened so fast. People were screaming, and the bus flipped over. I don’t know how I survived, but I saw many people badly hurt.”
Police and Safety Officials Call for Action
In the wake of the accident, traffic safety officials have renewed calls for tougher enforcement of driving regulations and improved driver training programs.
According to Uganda’s National Road Safety Council, road traffic accidents claim thousands of lives every year, making them one of the leading causes of death in the country.
The council reports that most fatal crashes involve public transport vehicles, often linked to driver fatigue, speeding, or poor vehicle maintenance.
Authorities have been working to increase the presence of traffic police patrols on major highways and introduce new road safety campaigns aimed at both drivers and passengers.
“Motorists must understand that overtaking carelessly not only endangers their lives but the lives of many others on the road,” a police spokesperson said. “Patience and responsibility can prevent tragedies like this.”
Community Mourning and National Reflection
As news of the tragedy spread, communities across Uganda expressed grief and solidarity with the victims’ families. Religious leaders, local politicians, and humanitarian organizations have offered condolences and support.
In Kiryandongo, a candlelight vigil was held for the victims, with residents calling for the government to prioritize road safety reforms and infrastructure upgrades.
Social media users shared emotional tributes, with hashtags such as #PrayForUganda and #KampalaGuluTragedy trending nationwide. Many urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent similar disasters in the future.
A Call for Safer Roads
The Kampala-Gulu Highway crash serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for road safety improvements across Uganda. As the government pledges compensation and launches investigations, the public is demanding long-term solutions, not just temporary fixes.
With the number of vehicles on Uganda’s roads continuing to rise each year, experts say investment in road expansion, driver education, and stronger enforcement will be crucial to saving lives.
“Every life lost on our roads is one too many,” President Museveni said. “Let us all work together to make our highways safer for everyone.”