Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash Claims Lives in Buikwe
A tragic multi-vehicle crash occurred on the morning of Thursday, April 9, 2026, along the Jinja-Kampala Highway at Kinoni village in Mabira Forest, Buikwe District. The accident claimed at least seven lives and left several others injured, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety on this heavily trafficked route.
The incident unfolded around 7:40 a.m. and involved three vehicles: an Isuzu ELF truck (registration UA050BZ) driven by 30-year-old Mpandi Paul from Namawojjolo in Mukono District, traveling from Kampala toward Jinja, and two Toyota Hiace vans (registrations UBQ729D and UBR511N). The second Hiace was a public service vehicle driven by 43-year-old Kasoma Swaibu from Kireka, Wakiso District.
How the Accident Happened
Police reports indicate that the Isuzu ELF truck experienced brake failure while descending a slope. The driver lost control, veering into the opposite lane and colliding head-on with the first Toyota Hiace (UBQ729D). The truck then struck the rear of the second Hiace (UBR511N), pushing it off the road into a trench where it overturned onto its side.
The collision caused severe destruction and immediate fatalities. Some victims were trapped in the wreckage, while others were rushed to Kawolo Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Casualties and Victims
Initial reports varied on the exact death toll, with some accounts mentioning two confirmed dead and seven injured, while others confirmed seven fatalities. The majority of the victims were occupants of the Toyota Hiace UBQ729D. Named victims include Oguta David Junior (45) of Bugembe, Kamale Badru (30) of Kaleerwe, Sseluwagi Yusuf (45) of Busia, Mugenyi Emmanuel (30) of Entebbe, Kyomugisha Shivani (19) of Kilyowa, Musoke Medieval (40) of Mutundwe, and Nakibule Flavia (27) of Busia.
The driver of the UBQ729D Hiace died at the scene and was initially unidentified. Those injured received treatment at Kawolo Hospital, while the deceased were taken to the mortuary for postmortem examinations. The driver of the Isuzu ELF truck, Mpandi Paul, is in police custody as investigations continue.
Road Safety Concerns and Context
The Jinja-Kampala Highway, which passes through the Mabira Forest, is a major transport corridor but has a history of serious accidents. Contributing factors often include speeding, mechanical failures such as brake issues, overtaking, and poor visibility on slopes. Authorities from Mabira Traffic Police and the Ssezibwa Region have urged motorists to exercise caution, particularly on steep sections and during busy morning hours, while emphasizing regular vehicle maintenance and responsible driving.
This tragic incident underscores the persistent dangers on Uganda’s roads, where poorly maintained vehicles and challenging terrain frequently lead to fatalities. Families of the victims are mourning sudden losses, while survivors face recovery from serious injuries. Police investigations are ongoing, with updates expected as authorities determine contributing factors and consider long-term measures to improve safety on this stretch of highway.
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