A tragic car accident in Kawolo, Lugazi Municipality, Buikwe District, has resulted in the deaths of three family members. The crash occurred on August 13, 2024, and has left Agnes Namirimu, the mother of the deceased children, in critical condition.
The victims, all residents of Kafumbe in Bibbo Sub-County, included Edward Sentongo, the local LC1 chairperson, and his two children, Denis Segawa, 3, and John Mugerwa, 5. They died at the scene after a speeding Toyota Hiace, commonly known as a “drone,” collided with the boda-boda they were traveling on early Tuesday morning along Ntenjeru on Katosi Road.
Namirimu was initially taken to a local medical center before being transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital due to her critical state. The family was reportedly returning home from a visit to their in-laws when the accident occurred.
Local councillor Muniina Atasaaga confirmed the incident, stating that the vehicle involved has been impounded by traffic police, who are investigating the crash. Atasaaga extended his condolences to the grieving family and wished Namirimu a swift recovery. The deceased will be laid to rest in Kasokoso, their ancestral home, on August 14.
Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura confirmed the incident and indicated that a detailed statement will be released later. The spokesperson has not yet provided additional details.
Recent statistics from the traffic police highlight concerning trends in road safety. According to their latest report, the highest number of fatal accidents in Uganda occurred between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm in 2023. There was a notable decrease in crashes after 8:00 pm, with the need for increased enforcement between 4:00 pm and midnight.
The report also revealed that 62% of accidents happened during the daytime, with the peak occurring between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm. December had the highest number of crashes, while January saw the lowest. July recorded the most fatalities, while November had the fewest. In total, 4,806 lives were lost in road crashes in 2023, a rise from 4,534 the previous year. Motorcyclists and their passengers were involved in 45% of these fatalities, while pedestrians accounted for 37%. Vehicle occupants made up 15%, and pedal cyclists 3%.
