Mass Casualty Crash on Kampala-Gulu Highway Claims 46 Lives in Uganda

Deadly Nighttime Collision

A horrific road accident on the Kampala-Gulu Highway has killed at least 46 people and injured several others, according to the Uganda Police Force.

The crash occurred at approximately 00:15 local time (21:15 GMT) when two buses traveling in opposite directions collided head-on while attempting to overtake a lorry and a car. One of the buses swerved to avoid impact, triggering a chain reaction that caused other vehicles to overturn.

Revised Death Toll and Emergency Response

Police initially reported 63 fatalities but later corrected the number to 46 deaths, clarifying that some victims who were counted as dead were actually unconscious and are now receiving treatment in hospitals.

Emergency responders rushed the injured to Kiryandongo hospitals, where medical personnel are working to stabilize survivors. Authorities have opened an investigation into the exact cause of the crash.

President Museveni Reacts to the Tragedy

Yoweri Museveni, President of Uganda, expressed deep sadness over the fatal crash and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

“I have learnt of this tragic accident with sadness,” Museveni said in a statement.

The president also announced financial support for victims  five million Ugandan shillings (about $1,430) for each bereaved family and one million shillings for the injured.

Dangerous Driving Blamed

Police say “dangerous and careless overtaking” remains one of the leading causes of road crashes in the country. Authorities urged motorists to exercise caution, especially on major highways like Kampala-Gulu, which see heavy traffic daily.

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The Kampala-Gulu route connects the capital to northern Uganda and is a critical economic and transport corridor, often congested with buses, trucks, and private vehicles.

Investigation Underway

The Uganda Police have launched a formal investigation to determine responsibility and contributing factors. Witness accounts and vehicle black box data will be analyzed to understand why the buses were overtaking at such high risk during the night.

Officials said they will also examine whether speed, driver fatigue, or mechanical failure played a role.

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