Tragic Head-On Collision on Kampala-Gulu Highway Claims 63 Lives
In a devastating event on the heavily traveled Kampala-Gulu highway, two buses collided head-on while attempting to overtake vehicles in opposite directions, resulting in a heartbreaking death toll of 63 passengers.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Catastrophe
The accident occurred just after midnight local time when both buses simultaneously tried to pass a truck and a car from opposing lanes. This risky overtaking attempt caused the vehicles to crash directly into each other.
Authorities confirmed that all fatalities were passengers aboard the two buses. Meanwhile, occupants of the truck and car sustained injuries and were swiftly taken to Kiryandongo hospital and nearby clinics for medical attention. Details regarding their current health status remain undisclosed.
the kampala-Gulu Highway: A Critical Yet Hazardous Corridor
This route connects Uganda’s capital, Kampala, with Gulu-the largest city in northern Uganda-and is one of the nation’s busiest highways. Its heavy traffic volume unluckily coincides with frequent accidents, highlighting ongoing safety challenges along this vital artery.
Urgent Road Safety Issues Raised by Officials
Police investigations are underway as authorities stress the importance of cautious driving nationwide. Reckless overtaking has been identified as a major contributor to road crashes across Uganda, prompting calls for stricter adherence to traffic rules.
Rising Road Fatalities Highlight National Safety Crisis
Recent statistics reveal an alarming upward trend in road deaths: 5,144 fatalities recorded in 2024 compared with 4,806 in 2023 and 4,534 in 2022. These numbers emphasize an urgent need for enhanced driver education programs and improved traffic enforcement measures throughout Uganda.
“The magnitude of this disaster is overwhelming,” stated Irene Nakasiita from the Red Cross. “Victims suffered severe trauma including multiple fractures; images from the scene are deeply distressing.”
A Nationwide Appeal for Responsible Driving Habits
This tragedy underscores how essential it is for drivers across Uganda to adopt safer practices-especially avoiding dangerous overtaking maneuvers-to reduce preventable deaths on roads that serve millions daily.
