Uganda bans school trips after 24 killed in bus crash

Ugandan authorities have suspended all school field trips after a devastating bus crash killed 23 children and one adult. The accident occurred Thursday when a bus returning to the capital, Kampala, from a trip to Sipi Falls veered off the road, struck a stone, and overturned.

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three more pupils succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash while receiving medical treatment

Police confirmed that 20 junior schoolchildren and one adult died at the scene. Three more pupils later succumbed to their injuries in hospital. Six of the deceased have yet to be identified. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, sustaining critical injuries.

The Ministry of Education convened an emergency meeting Friday and announced the temporary nationwide suspension of school trips. This pause aims to allow for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of recent crashes involving school children. The ministry also plans to improve safety guidelines and provide road safety training to schools and transport companies.

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comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding recent crashes involving school children

All school groups currently on trips were instructed to report to the nearest police station for safe return, with police offering escorts if necessary. The tragedy near Kaserem, over 250 kilometers from Kampala, highlights Uganda's notorious road safety record, with frequent bus and truck accidents along poorly maintained highways. A 2024 report noted 4,434 fatal collisions and 5,144 deaths that year.

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Where necessary, police officers will provide escorts to ensure the safe return of learners to their respective schools