Tragedy on Iganga–Bugiri Highway: Ten Killed in Deadly Busolwe Taxi Crash
A predawn collision between a commuter taxi and a parked trailer leaves a trail of grief in Bugiri District as authorities launch a full investigation.
Busolwe, Bugiri District/Uganda
A devastating road crash near Busowa Town Council in Bugiri District has left ten people dead and at least three seriously injured, after a commuter taxi collided with a stationary trailer early Wednesday morning.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 a.m. on December 10, along the Iganga–Bugiri Highway, a major transport corridor linking eastern Uganda to the Busia border.
According to police reports, the commuter taxi — a Toyota Hiace (UBN 817H) — was travelling from the Busia/Malaba direction toward Iganga when the driver attempted to overtake another vehicle. In the process, he encountered an oncoming car and swerved sharply, losing control and ramming into a parked trailer on the roadside.
Traffic Police Spokesperson SP Michael Kananura confirmed that all ten victims died on the spot, including the taxi driver. The severely injured survivors were rushed to Bugiri Main Hospital and later transferred to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for specialised care.
Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene, with the taxi crushed beyond recognition.
“The taxi was speeding. It tried to overtake, but there was an oncoming vehicle. The driver had nowhere to go,” one resident told reporters.
Police from the Busoga East Region immediately cordoned off the area, recovered the bodies, and towed the taxi wreckage for forensic examination. Authorities say reckless driving and dangerous overtaking are the primary suspected causes.
The bodies of the deceased are being held at Bugiri Hospital Mortuary pending identification and post-mortem examinations.
Traffic officials issued fresh warnings to motorists, especially during the festive season when deadly road crashes spike nationwide.
“Drivers must prioritise safety. Overspeeding and reckless overtaking continue to cost innocent lives,” SP Kananura emphasized.
The police investigation remains ongoing.
Why it Matters
The Iganga–Bugiri corridor is among Uganda’s deadliest highways, with repeated accidents involving taxis and heavy trucks.
The December festive period historically records up to 30% more road fatalities.
Many rural families depend on commuter taxis as their primary transport, increasing vulnerability when safety rules are ignored.
Poor parking practices by long-haul truck drivers contribute to catastrophic collisions across the region.
What to Watch
- Identification of Victims
Police are working with local leaders and families to confirm the identities of the deceased. Updates are expected within the next 24–48 hours.
- Results of Forensic Analysis
The wreckage will undergo inspection to determine:
Taxi mechanical condition
Visibility and placement of the parked trailer
Whether road signage or reflectors were present
- Increased Traffic Enforcement
Authorities have hinted at:
Roadblocks
Speed monitoring
Crackdowns on illegal parking by trailers
- Holiday Travel Advisory
The Ministry of Works and Police may issue new safety guidelines ahead of peak holiday movement.
