Tragic Bus Accident Claims 20 Pupils in Kapchorwa

A somber mood has fallen over Uganda following a fatal bus accident in Kapchorwa District, which resulted in the deaths of 20 young pupils and one adult.

The tragic incident occurred on Thursday evening in Chekwatit Village.

The bus, belonging to King David Junior School in Kampala, was en route back from an educational excursion to the popular Sipi Falls when the driver reportedly lost control.

According to police spokesperson Michael Kananura, the Isuzu bus veered off the road, struck a large stone, and overturned.

“We wish to confirm that… a total of 21 people, comprising 20 pupils and one adult, have so far been confirmed dead,” Kananura stated.

Several survivors were rushed to various health facilities, including Kaserem Health Centre IV, Kapchorwa General Hospital, and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for urgent medical attention.

While the driver of the bus has not yet been identified, preliminary police investigations suggest a loss of control as the cause of the crash. The deceased were transported to Kapchorwa Mortuary for identification and postmortem examinations.

The Uganda Police Force has extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and the school community, while also wishing the injured a swift recovery.

This incident marks one of the deadliest road crashes involving schoolchildren in Uganda recently, reigniting critical discussions about road safety and the transportation of students on school trips.

Source: Nile Post