At least 46 people have been confirmed dead following a tragic road accident involving several vehicles along Uganda’s busy Kampala-Gulu Highway, police have said.
The Uganda Police Force revised down an earlier death toll of 63, explaining that some victims initially thought to be dead were actually unconscious and are now receiving treatment in hospitals.
According to police, the horrific crash occurred around 12:15 a.m. local time (21:15 GMT) when two buses travelling in opposite directions collided head-on while attempting to overtake a lorry and a car. One of the buses swerved to avoid a crash, leading to a “head-on and side collision” that triggered a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles.
Regional Police Spokesperson Julius Hakiiza told the BBC that four vehicles were involved in the accident. “One of the buses was trying to overtake when it collided head-on with another bus coming from the opposite direction,” he said.
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Several passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to hospitals in the western town of Kiryandongo for treatment. Police say an investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
In a statement, police confirmed they were working with health and emergency services to verify the casualty numbers and provide accurate updates. They also urged motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking, describing it as one of the leading causes of road accidents in the country.
President Yoweri Museveni expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy and sent condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He also directed that each bereaved family receive five million Ugandan shillings (about KSh 230,000) and one million shillings (about KSh 46,000) be given to those injured.
“I have learnt of the tragic accident with great sadness,” President Museveni said, urging drivers to exercise caution on the road to prevent similar disasters.
The Kampala-Gulu Highway, which connects the capital to the northern part of the country, is one of Uganda’s busiest roads and has been the site of several fatal crashes in recent years.
