A school bus carrying pupils from King David Junior School in Kampala crashed late on July 16 near Chekwatit village in Kapchorwa district, eastern Uganda, while returning from an educational trip to Sipi Falls [1, 2, 3, 4]. The crash killed 23 children and one adult immediately, with three more pupils dying later from injuries, raising the death toll to 24 children and at least one adult [3, 4]. Authorities reported 23 injured survivors remain hospitalized in Kapchorwa district [3, 4].
The adult killed is believed to be the school’s founder and head, though some sources report two adults died in the crash [2, 3, 4]. Kampala is about 300 km from the remote Kapchorwa district near the Uganda-Kenya border [1, 2].
Preliminary police investigations indicate the driver lost control of the bus, which veered off the road, struck a large roadside stone, and overturned [1, 2, 3, 4]. Uganda Police Force spokesperson Michael Kananura said, "The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which veered off the road, struck a large stone along the roadside, and overturned." [1]
Similar fatal crashes are common in Uganda, often attributed to poor roads, badly maintained vehicles, and speeding [1, 2, 3].
Following the crash, the Ugandan government suspended all school trips and excursions nationwide effective July 17 until further notice to review safety guidelines [1, 2, 3, 4]. Acting Minister of Education and Sports John Muyingo said, "The suspension decision was taken as a precautionary measure to protect the lives and safety of children, while the government reviews existing guidelines governing school trips." [4]
Authorities urge schools currently on trips to report immediately to the nearest police station for guidance [4]. Kapchorwa district officials said more than 28 children were being treated in hospitals, with nine in critical condition [2].
The government’s next steps include completing the safety review and determining when school outings can safely resume.
