A devastating accident on Sunday morning has left one person dead and 29 others injured on the Kamwenge-Fort Portal road in Kamwenge district. The tragic accident unfolded in a valley situated between the East Ruwenzori Diocese headquarters and Kamwenge Secondary School, where a Fuso lorry overturned after failing to navigate a sharp bend.
The ill-fated lorry, registered as UAT 531 C, was transporting 30 members of the Kamwenge Mobile Market Traders Association (KMMTA) to Kahunge Town Council for their weekly market. The vehicle’s loss of control resulted in a chaotic scene that would change the lives of many.
The deceased has been identified as Derrick, a resident of Rutooma in Kitagwenda District. He tragically succumbed to his injuries while being transported to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. Among the injured, three traders are reported to be in critical condition and are receiving intensive care at various medical facilities.
Many seek treatment for minor injuries
In addition to the critically injured, 26 individuals who sustained minor injuries are being treated across several hospitals, including Rukunyu Hospital, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Kamwenge Marcy Clinic, and Padre Pio Health Center. The widespread impact of the tragic accident highlights the urgent need for safety measures.
Eyewitness accounts describe the moments leading up to the tragedy as chaotic. One bystander, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted, “The driver tried to control the vehicle, but it was already out of control. The traders were panicking and shouting, which only added to the confusion.” Such testimonies paint a vivid picture of the panic experienced by those on board.
Reports suggest that the lorry was overloaded with both passengers and goods, raising serious concerns about its safety and capacity. The issue of vehicle safety remains paramount, particularly in light of such tragic incidents.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, KMMTA Chairperson Wineble Nuwahereza has stressed the urgent need for improved safety measures. He emphasized the importance of driver training and regular vehicle inspections, stating, “This tragedy has reminded us of the need to prioritize safety. Our association will work to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.”
The call for action is clear: ensuring the safety of passengers and traders must take precedence to avoid further tragedies.
