A devastating accident late Friday night claimed the lives of ten Congolese nationals, five children, in Kamuserwa cell, Nyakibaale ward, Rubanda district.
The crash, which occurred at approximately 11:30pm, also left 31 others injured.
The victims were traveling in an overloaded Hiace vehicle, registration number UBK 037G, from Kisoro District to the Rwamwanja refugee camp in Kamwenge District.
With over 40 passengers on board, the vehicle reportedly went off the road and overturned, resulting in the fatalities.
Kigezi Police spokesperson Elly Maate attributed the accident to the driver’s inability to manage a sharp corner, causing the vehicle to overturn.
“Ten people have been confirmed dead. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident,” Maate said.
At Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, where most of the injured are admitted, hospital director Philbert John Nyeko provided updates on the situation.
“We have 34 casualties admitted. One person is in the theatre, and a two-month-old baby, whose mother is presumed dead, is among the critically injured.”
He also confirmed that ten bodies are in the mortuary, including eight who died on the spot and two others who succumbed shortly after.
Nyeko highlighted the challenges the hospital faces due to the influx of casualties, which has overwhelmed its emergency capacity.
“We usually admit about 50 patients daily, but this accident has stretched our resources,” he said.
“We’re seeking help from nearby facilities to manage the situation and mobilizing resources to feed the victims, as many lack relatives to care for them.”
As investigations continue, the deceased victims remain at the Kabale Regional Referral Hospital mortuary.
The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the risks associated with overcrowded and unsafe vehicles on Uganda’s roads.
