63 Dead in Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash Along Kampala–Gulu Highway

63 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured following a tragic road crash that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning at Kitaleba Village, near Asili Farm, along the Kampala–Gulu Highway.

The fatal accident, which happened at around 12:15 a.m., involved four vehicles: an Isuzu bus registration number UBF 614X (Nile Star Coaches), a Toyota Surf CGO 5132AB 07, a Tata Lorry UBK 647C, and another Isuzu bus UAM 045V belonging to Planet Company.

According to SP Michael Kananura, the Traffic and Road Safety Directorate spokesperson, the crash occurred when the driver of the Nile Star bus (UBF 614X), heading from Kampala to Gulu, attempted to overtake the Tata Lorry (UBK 647C). At the same moment, the Planet Company bus (UAM 045V), travelling from the opposite direction, was overtaking the Toyota Surf (CGO 5132AB 07).

Both buses reportedly collided head-on during the simultaneous overtaking manoeuvres. One of the drivers tried to swerve to avoid impact, but the attempt led to a chain reaction of collisions, with some vehicles overturning multiple times.

63 people, all occupants of the involved vehicles, died on the spot or shortly after, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

Police and rescue teams responded, transporting the injured to Kiryandongo Hospital and nearby health facilities. The bodies of the deceased were also taken to Kiryandongo Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination and identification.

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, police have issued a stern warning to motorists to avoid reckless and dangerous overtaking, citing it as one of the leading causes of fatal crashes on Ugandan roads.

“We strongly urge all motorists to exercise maximum caution on the roads, especially avoiding dangerous and careless overtaking,” said Kananura.

He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.