Accident: 63 killed in head-on bus collision on Kampala–Gulu highway

At least 63 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured following a devastating road accident that occurred shortly after midnight on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Kitaleba village, near Asili Farm along the Kampala–Gulu highway.

The fatal crash involved four vehicles: an Isuzu bus (UBF 614X) belonging to Nile Star Coaches, a Toyota Surf (CGO 5132AB 07), a Tata lorry (UBK 647C), and another Isuzu bus (UAM 045V) operated by Planet Company.

According to Michael Kananura, spokesperson for the directorate of traffic and road safety, the crash occurred when the driver of the Nile Star Coaches bus (UBF 614X), travelling from Kampala towards Gulu, attempted to overtake the Tata lorry at the scene.

“Simultaneously, the Isuzu bus (UAM 045V), travelling from the opposite direction, was also attempting to overtake the Toyota Surf (CGO 5132AB 07). In the process, both buses met head-on during the overtaking manoeuvres,” Kananura said.

“One of the drivers swerved in an attempt to avoid a collision, but this resulted in a head-on and side collision, causing a chain reaction that led to other vehicles losing control and overturning several times,” he added.

The crash left 63 people dead on the spot, while several others sustained serious injuries. The injured were rushed to Kiryandongo hospital and nearby health facilities, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to the hospital mortuary for post-mortem and identification.

Kananura urged motorists to exercise maximum caution, particularly by avoiding dangerous and reckless overtaking, which he said remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in Uganda. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wish a quick recovery to all those injured,” Kananura said.