Government to Vet and Clear School Bus Drivers After Deadly Kapchorwa Crash

What the report says

Nile Post reports that Uganda’s government has announced new rules for school transport after a fatal crash in Kapchorwa involving learners from King David Junior School. According to the report, the crash killed 26 people: 21 learners and five staff members. State Minister for Transport Julius Maganda outlined the measures during an inter-ministerial briefing held in response to the incident.

Under the announced changes, drivers carrying learners in buses and other mass passenger vehicles will have to be vetted and cleared by the Ministry of Works and Transport before operating. Nile Post reports that public service vehicle drivers will also be expected to hold a government-issued badge, and that authorities will stop and take action against drivers who lack the required clearance. Maganda said the aim is to ensure that children are transported by approved and qualified drivers.

The measures also include compulsory vehicle inspections before school trips. The Ministry of Works and Transport will provide primary clearance, while schools outside major urban areas will be served through regional Inspectorate of Vehicles offices or Traffic Police. In addition to mechanical checks, schools will need administrative approval from the relevant District Education Officer before learners travel.

Nile Post further reports that the government plans stricter identification standards for school-owned or school-operated buses and vans, covering institutions from nursery level through universities. Enforcement is expected to involve the Ministry of Works and Transport and the Uganda Police Force’s Traffic Directorate. The move matters because the Kapchorwa crash has intensified public concern over school trip safety, vehicle roadworthiness and the qualifications of drivers entrusted with learners.