Fourteen people were killed and four others injured in a devastating road crash late Monday along the Kampala-Masaka Highway, adding to growing concerns over road safety on one of Uganda’s busiest transport corridors.
The collision occurred at about 11 p.m. at Kamunga Trading Centre near Lwera Swamp in Kalungu District. It involved a Toyota Hiace taxi, registration number UA 662AQ, and a Sino truck, registration number UBS 040F, which was transporting sand.
According to Greater Masaka Regional Police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye, all 14 people who died at the scene were passengers traveling in the taxi.
Four survivors sustained injuries in the crash, including two occupants of the taxi and two from the truck. They were taken to Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Police said preliminary findings indicate that reckless driving may have contributed to the collision, although investigations are continuing to establish the exact circumstances that led to the crash.
Traffic officers and investigators responded to the scene overnight, documenting evidence before the damaged vehicles were removed for mechanical examination.
Authorities have also launched a search for the driver of the truck, who is reported to have fled immediately after the accident. Police said efforts are underway to locate him as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Kampala-Masaka Highway is one of Uganda’s busiest roads, serving both passenger and cargo traffic between the capital and the southwestern region, as well as neighboring countries. The route has frequently recorded serious crashes, prompting repeated calls from road safety advocates for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and more responsible driving.
Police urged motorists to observe traffic laws, avoid dangerous driving practices and remain vigilant, particularly during nighttime travel, as investigations into the fatal crash continue.
