Seven killed in separate accidents on major highways

Uganda’s road safety crisis remains a major concern, as recent incidents highlight the growing danger on its roads. In separate crashes, six people died, and several others were injured on the Pakwach–Olwiyo–Karuma highway. Hours later, another person was killed on the Mbarara–Bushenyi road.

These tragic events are part of a rising national toll, with police reporting an average of 15 fatalities daily, amounting to over 5,300 deaths from more than 26,000 crashes in 2025 alone. More than 4,600 of these crashes were fatal.

The deadliest period on the roads occurs between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., although most accidents take place during daylight hours. Men account for over 80 percent of the deaths, with young people under 35 being the most vulnerable.

Police attribute the alarming trend to speeding, reckless driving, and the widespread disregard for traffic regulations, compounded by the increasing volume of traffic on major highways. The latest accidents have raised concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement and the lack of discipline among road users as fatalities continue to climb.