Deadly Collision on Kampala–Gulu Highway Claims 46 Lives
KAMPALA, UGANDA — At least 46 people have died in a devastating road accident involving multiple vehicles on the Kampala–Gulu Highway, one of Uganda’s busiest transport routes. The fatal collision occurred shortly after midnight near Kiryandongo, approximately 263 km (163 miles) north of Kampala, when two passenger buses travelling in opposite directions collided head-on during a failed overtaking attempt.
Authorities initially reported 63 fatalities before revising the number down as rescue and identification efforts continued.
“In the process, both buses met head-on during the overtaking manoeuvres,” said a spokesperson for the Uganda Police Force in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter).
How the Accident Happened
According to preliminary investigations, the crash occurred when one bus attempted to overtake a truck while another bus coming from the opposite direction tried to pass a smaller vehicle simultaneously. Both buses collided at high speed, instantly killing dozens of passengers and leaving survivors critically injured.
Witnesses described a chaotic and horrific scene, with bodies and debris scattered along the tarmac. Emergency responders, including the Uganda Red Cross Society, worked through the night to pull victims from the wreckage.
“The magnitude of this incident is so big,” said Irene Nakasiita, spokesperson for the Red Cross. “Many victims were left bleeding with broken limbs. The images from the scene are too gruesome to share.”
Revised Casualty Figures and Ongoing Investigation
Police later clarified that initial casualty estimates were higher due to confusion during rescue operations.
“At the time of the crash, several victims were found unconscious and may have been mistakenly included in the initial fatality count,” the Uganda Police Force said in an updated statement.
Authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, but reckless overtaking, speeding, and driver fatigue are being considered key factors.
Kampala–Gulu Highway: A Dangerous Lifeline
The Kampala–Gulu Highway serves as a critical artery connecting Uganda’s capital to northern cities, carrying heavy traffic including long-haul trucks, passenger buses, and private vehicles. Despite being a vital route, it has gained notoriety for frequent fatal road accidents, often caused by poor road discipline and risky overtaking.
According to Uganda Police data, 5,144 people were killed in road accidents in 2024, up from 4,806 in 2023 and 4,534 in 2022, marking a worrying increase in fatalities.
“We urge all motorists to exercise maximum caution on the roads, especially avoiding dangerous and careless overtaking,” police emphasized.
Government Response and Calls for Action
The Ugandan government and the Ministry of Works and Transport have expressed condolences to the families of the victims and vowed to strengthen road safety enforcement.
Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala called the incident “a national tragedy” and pledged stricter measures against bus companies violating traffic rules.
“We cannot continue losing lives on our highways due to human error,” Wamala said. “We will enhance monitoring of public transport operators and review road safety policies.”
Traffic police have also announced intensified highway patrols, random alcohol tests, and driver re-certifications for long-distance operators.
Road Safety Concerns in Uganda
Uganda has one of the highest road accident rates in East Africa. Experts attribute this to over-speeding, driver negligence, poor vehicle maintenance, and insufficient road lighting on major highways.
The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks Uganda among the countries with the highest per capita road deaths globally, estimating that nearly 30 people die on Ugandan roads every day.
Road safety advocates are urging the government to invest in dual carriageways, better driver education, and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
A Nation in Mourning
As emergency responders continue to identify the deceased, families across Uganda are mourning loved ones who were en route to northern towns and villages. Mass funeral preparations are underway in Kiryandongo and surrounding districts.
Ugandans have taken to social media to express condolences and demand accountability from transport authorities. The tragedy has reignited national debate over road infrastructure, public transport safety, and driver regulation.
“These deaths were preventable,” wrote one user on X. “How many more lives must we lose before serious action is taken?”
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