Uganda crash: ATC urges stricter safety for school excursions

What the report says

The Punch reported that the African Travel Commission (ATC) has called for stronger safety rules for school trips across Africa after a fatal road crash in Uganda involving pupils and school officials. The crash occurred on July 16, 2026, at Chekwatit Village in Kapchorwa District, eastern Uganda, as a bus owned by King David Junior School was returning from an educational visit to Sipi Falls. A Reuters image cited by the newspaper showed wreckage at the roadside after the incident.

In a statement signed by Executive Director Lucky George, the ATC offered condolences to the families of those killed, injured survivors, King David Junior School and the wider Ugandan public. The commission also expressed support for Uganda’s government, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Uganda Tourism Board and tourism industry stakeholders.

According to The Punch, ATC Chairman Ola Awakan, who is also Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, said the tragedy should prompt tourism and education stakeholders to review safety arrangements for organised travel involving children. He urged national tourism organisations, regional bodies, schools, tour operators and transport providers to collaborate on risk checks, vehicle inspections, qualified drivers, emergency plans, adult supervision and compliance with road safety regulations before excursions proceed.

The ATC also praised emergency responders, health workers and local residents who helped after the crash. It said educational trips remain valuable for learning, cultural exposure and tourism development, but argued that traveller safety—especially for children—must take priority. The commission said it expects Ugandan authorities to investigate the circumstances of the crash and take steps aimed at preventing similar incidents.