46 dead, multiple injured in devastating bus accident on Kampala-Gulu highway

22 October 2025, 12:53 pm

Byamukama Alozious

A tragic bus accident occurred at kitaleba village,kiryandongo district on Kampala-Gulu Highway this morning, resulting in 46 fatalities and multiple injuries. The crash involved four vehicles including Isuzu bus (UAM 045V) belonging to Planet Company, An Isuzu bus (UBF 614X) operated by Nile Star Coaches,Toyota Surf (CGO 5132AB 07 and Tata lorry (UBK 647C)

According Micheal Kananura, the traffic police spokes person, the accident happened when two buses attempted to overtake other vehicles simultaneously, leading to a head-on collision

The Uganda Police Force initially reported 63 fatalities but later revised the death toll to 46, attributing the discrepancy to some victims being found unconscious and mistakenly counted among the dead.

President Yoweri Museveni sent condolences to the victims’ families and directed the State House Comptroller to disburse Shs 5 million to each bereaved family and Shs 1 million to those injured.

Irene Nakasiita, Head of Communications at the Uganda Red Cross Society, emphasized the importance of focusing on the injured, stating, “Supporting the injured in the Kampala–Gulu Highway accident, whereas much of the attention has rightfully been focused on the number of lives lost, it is equally important to spotlight the survivors who are critically injured and still fighting for their lives.” She added, “We remain committed to working closely with health professionals and emergency responders to ensure that every life receives the urgent attention it deserves.” The Red Cross deployed additional ambulances to support the emergency response.

The Uganda Medical Association expressed deep condolences to the families and communities affected, commending emergency responders and health workers for their swift response despite limited resources. “We commend the Uganda Police Force, emergency responders, and health workers who responded swiftly despite limited resources. Their courage and professionalism embody the spirit of service that sustains our health system even in moments of immense strain. This tragedy has once again exposed the urgent need for deliberate and sustained action.” They called for stricter enforcement against reckless overtaking, overspeeding, and night travel for passenger buses, as well as the establishment of well-equipped trauma and emergency centers along major highways. “Every life lost is more than a number; it is a parent, a child, a colleague, a story cut short. We therefore urge all Ugandans to drive responsibly and for authorities to prioritize safer roads and stronger emergency systems. UMA stands ready to work with government and partners to improve trauma preparedness.”