Uganda Suspends School Trips After Bus Crash Kills 20 Pupils

Government officials have halted all school field trips after a bus accident in eastern Uganda’s Kapchorwa district that claimed the lives of 20 pupils and a school director.

The crash occurred on the treacherous Chekwatit Hill road and was traced to a mechanical failure that caused the vehicle to lose control and overturn after colliding with a roadside stone. Traffic Police spokesman Michael Kananura said the bus was carrying students from King David Junior School in Ndejje who had been touring the scenic Sipi Falls.

Education Minister John Chrysostom Muyingo announced the suspension would remain in effect until a full investigation is completed, adding that “the nation has suffered a great loss.” The adult casualty, who was also the founder and director of the school, was identified as Mr Tadeo Ssekade.

Uganda, which records thousands of road deaths annually, faces ongoing scrutiny over poor vehicle maintenance, speeding and dangerous road conditions. The incident adds to a string of recent bus accidents involving school transport.