Museveni Offers UGX 5m to Families of Kiryandongo Accident Dead

President Yoweri Museveni has expressed grief over the death of 46 people in a tragic road accident in Kiryandongo district. The crash involved four vehicles: an Isuzu bus (UBF 614X) operated by Nile Star Coaches, a Toyota Surf (CGO 5132AB 07), a Tata lorry (UBK 647C), and another Isuzu bus (UAM 045V) belonging to Planet Company. It occurred at Asili Farm, Kitaleba village, along the Kampala–Gulu highway.

According to Michael Kananura, spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, the UBF 614X Isuzu bus, traveling from Kampala to Gulu, attempted to overtake the Tata lorry at the scene. Simultaneously, the UAM 045V Isuzu bus, traveling in the opposite direction, was also attempting to overtake the Toyota Surf. 

This led to a head-on collision between the two buses during the overtaking maneuvers. “One of the drivers swerved to avoid a collision, but this resulted in a head-on and side collision, causing a chain reaction. Other vehicles lost control and overturned several times,” Kananura explained.

At least 46 people have been confirmed dead, while scores of others sustained injuries. Julius Hakiza, the Albertine region police spokesperson, said that the deceased and injured were transferred to Kiryandongo Hospital and other facilities. He added that identification of the deceased and injured is still ongoing.

Through his X (formerly Twitter) account, President Museveni condoled with the bereaved families. He said: “I have learnt with sadness about the tragic accident that occurred this morning along the Kampala–Gulu highway, claiming many lives. I extend my condolences to the bereaved families and wish the injured a quick recovery.”

Museveni announced that he has directed the State House Comptroller to provide five million shillings to each bereaved family and one million shillings to each injured person. He further urged road users to exercise utmost caution to prevent such tragedies. “May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,” he added.