At least 21 people, including 20 pupils and one adult, have been confirmed dead following a tragic road crash involving a school bus in Kapchorwa District, the Uganda Police Force has confirmed.
According to a police statement issued today, the fatal accident occurred on Thursday evening at Chekwatit Village, Kimawa Parish, Kawowo Sub-county.
The crash involved an Isuzu bus, registration number UA 108BQ, belonging to King David Junior School, located in Ndejje, Makindye Ssabagabo. Police said the identity of the driver has not yet been established.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the pupils had travelled to Sipi Falls in Kapchorwa District for an educational tour. While returning from the excursion, the driver reportedly lost control of the bus, causing it to veer off the road, crash into a large roadside stone, and overturn.
Police said the devastating crash claimed the lives of 20 pupils and one adult male at the scene. In addition, three adult males and several juveniles sustained injuries.
The injured were rushed to Kaserem Health Centre IV, Kapchorwa General Hospital, and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment. Authorities are still working to establish the identities of the survivors.
The bodies of the deceased have been taken to Kapchorwa Mortuary, where they await identification by relatives and postmortem examinations.
Police have launched investigations to determine the exact cause of the accident, with further updates expected as inquiries continue.
The Uganda Police Force expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the management, staff and learners of King David Junior School, and everyone affected by the tragedy. The Force also wished the injured a speedy and full recovery.
The accident is one of the deadliest school transport crashes recorded in Uganda in recent years and has once again highlighted the importance of strict adherence to road safety measures, particularly during school trips and long-distance travel.
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