KAMPALA, Uganda — At least 14 people were killed and 28 others injured Tuesday night when a passenger bus collided head-on with a trailer at Bobi Trading Centre along the Kampala-Gulu Highway, police said.
The crash happened around 9:34 p.m. and involved an Isuzu bus, registration number UBE 110H, operated by OPIT Travellers Company, and a Mercedes-Benz Actros trailer, registration number KBS 564D/ZE 7948, according to police.
Police spokesperson Michael Kananura said a preliminary investigation indicates the bus driver was speeding and swerved to avoid a pedestrian crossing the road. The driver lost control of the bus, which then collided head-on with the oncoming trailer, he said.
“The crash claimed the lives of 14 people, while 28 others sustained injuries,” Kananura said.
The injured were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Emergency responders worked through the night to rescue survivors and clear the scene, police said.
Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the crash, according to police.
Kananura urged drivers to slow down, particularly at night.
“We urge all motorists to strictly observe speed limits, especially during the night when visibility is reduced,” he said. “Drivers are also reminded to remain vigilant, anticipate pedestrian movement in trading centers, and always drive at speeds that allow them to stop safely.”
The crash adds to a rising toll of fatal accidents on Uganda’s highways. Speeding, dangerous overtaking and failure to follow traffic rules remain among the leading causes of road deaths in the country. Uganda recorded 5,144 road deaths in 2024, up from 4,806 in 2023, according to police figures.
