At least 21 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating road accident involving a Liberty Tour and Travel bus at Chepkwatit in Kapchorwa District.

Reports indicate that approximately 80 people were on board at the time of the crash. Several passengers sustained injuries of varying severity and were rushed to Kapchorwa General Hospital, Muyembe Health Centre IV in Bulambuli District, and Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for emergency medical treatment.

According to preliminary reports, the bus was carrying pupils and other passengers from King David Junior School, Ndejje, who were returning from a study tour to the Sipi tourism area when the accident occurred.

The cause of the accident has not yet been officially established. However, witnesses at the scene claim the bus had developed mechanical problems and had reportedly been repaired about three kilometres from where the fatal crash occurred. Police have not yet confirmed these claims and investigations are underway to establish the exact cause of the accident.

Emergency responders, police officers, health workers, and members of the public worked tirelessly to rescue survivors and recover bodies from the wreckage.

The Chepkwatit stretch of road has over the years been the scene of several fatal road accidents, raising renewed concerns over road safety along the route. Residents have repeatedly called for measures to reduce accidents, including improved road safety enforcement and regular vehicle inspections.

Authorities are expected to release a comprehensive report after completing investigations and formally identifying all the victims. The nation joins the bereaved families and the school community in mourning the lives lost in one of the region’s deadliest road tragedies in recent years.