63 killed in devastating highway crash in Uganda

At least 63 people have died in a horrific multi-vehicle crash on Uganda’s Kampala-Gulu Highway, police confirmed on Wednesday. The tragedy unfolded just after midnight at approximately 00:15 local time (21:15 GMT), in what authorities are calling one of the worst road disasters in recent memory.

According to a statement from the Uganda Police Force, two buses traveling in opposite directions collided head-on while attempting to overtake two other vehicles.

One of the buses, in a bid to avoid an imminent crash, swerved sharply—triggering a “head-on and side collision” that resulted in a deadly chain reaction. Several vehicles lost control and overturned in the aftermath.

“This is a deeply tragic event. The initial collision caused a domino effect, involving multiple vehicles, many of which were carrying passengers,” said a police spokesperson.

Eyewitnesses at the scene described a chaotic and harrowing aftermath, with mangled vehicles strewn across the highway and survivors screaming for help. Emergency services rushed to the scene and worked through the night to extract bodies and rescue injured passengers.

As well as the confirmed fatalities, dozens more sustained serious injuries. Some have been transported to regional hospitals for urgent medical care.

Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident and whether any safety regulations were breached. Preliminary reports suggest speeding and reckless overtaking were contributing factors.

The Kampala-Gulu Highway is a major transportation artery in Uganda, and this incident raises fresh concerns about road safety, especially during nighttime travel.

Police are urging all drivers to exercise extreme caution and adhere to traffic laws to prevent future tragedies.

President Yoweri Museveni is expected to issue a statement as the nation mourns the lives lost. Meanwhile, grieving families are gathering in communities across the country, awaiting the identification and release of their loved ones.

More updates will follow as the investigation continues.