A somber mood has engulfed the nation following a horrific road accident in Kapchorwa District that claimed the lives of 21 people, including 20 pupils.
The Uganda Police Force confirmed that the fatal crash occurred yesterday evening at Chekwatit Village, Kimawa Parish, in the Kawowo Sub-county. The victims were traveling on an Isuzu bus (registration number UA 108BQ), which belonged to King David Junior School, located in Ndejje, Makindye Division, Kampala.
According to preliminary police reports, the bus was transporting pupils back from an educational excursion to the scenic Sipi Falls. The journey turned into a tragedy when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle. The bus veered off the road, struck a large stone, and subsequently overturned.
Authorities have confirmed the death toll stands at 21, comprising 20 pupils and one adult male. Several other passengers—including three adult males and a number of juveniles—sustained injuries and were rushed to Kaserem Health Centre IV, Kapchorwa General Hospital, and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for urgent medical care.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been released, and their bodies have been conveyed to the Kapchorwa Mortuary, where they await identification and postmortem examinations. The identity of the driver remains unknown at this time.
In a statement issued following the crash, the Uganda Police Force expressed their profound grief. "The Uganda Police Force extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the management of King David Junior School, and all those affected by this tragic incident," the statement read. "We also wish the injured a quick and full recovery."
Police investigators have launched an inquiry to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. As the community reels from the loss, authorities have promised to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
The incident has sparked renewed conversations regarding road safety and the regulation of school transport vehicles across the country.
