At least 63 killed in Uganda highway crash
At least 63 killed in a head-on collision between two buses and other vehicles in western Uganda. Police blame reckless overtaking for one of the country’s deadliest crashes in years.
At least 63 killed in Uganda highway crash
KAMPALA, Uganda — In one of Uganda’s deadliest road disasters in recent years, at least 63 people were killed and several others injured early Wednesday when two buses and two other vehicles collided on a highway in western Uganda.
Police said the accident occurred shortly after midnight near the town of Kiryandongo, along the highway to the northern city of Gulu. According to initial reports, the crash happened when both bus drivers, traveling in opposite directions, attempted to overtake other vehicles and collided head-on.
“In the process, both buses met head-on during the overtaking maneuvers,” police said in a statement.
Emergency workers and Uganda Red Cross officials rushed to the scene, describing the situation as horrific. “The magnitude of this incident is so big,” said Red Cross spokeswoman Irene Nakasiita, noting that many victims suffered severe injuries including broken limbs.
Authorities said most of the injured have been taken to a nearby government hospital.
Fatal road crashes are common in Uganda, often caused by speeding and reckless overtaking. Police data shows that 5,144 people were killed in road accidents in 2024, up from 4,806 in 2023 — a worrisome rise.
“As investigations continue, we strongly urge all motorists to exercise maximum caution on the roads,” police said.
(AP)
