A Buyende road accident has tragically claimed five lives after their Toyota Harrier veered off Kamuli–Irundu Road and plunged into a water-filled trench near Buyumba Trading Centre. The crash happened at around 8pm on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
According to Busoga North Regional Police, the vehicle with registration number UBD 160F was heading to Irundu from Iyingo Landing Site. The driver lost control on a slightly raised section of the road, leading to the fatal accident.
Drunk Driving Suspected in Buyende Road Accident
Preliminary findings suggest that drunk driving played a major role in the Buyende road accident. Police spokesperson ASP Michael Kasadha explained that the car skidded, veered off-road, and plunged into the trench.
“The vehicle went off the road and crashed into a water-filled trench, killing all five occupants instantly,” he said. “It’s unfortunate we lost young lives in a preventable tragedy.”
Victims Identified and Families Notified
The victims of the Buyende road accident were:
- Masudi Sebuliba (32), from Kaliro
- Ayubu Mua (29), of Kaliro Town Council
- Ben Ndikola (24), also from Kaliro Town Council
- Wilberforce Wamuseke (31), from Gumpi
- Evelyn Kyalisima (25), a resident of Lyantonde District
Authorities recovered the bodies and handed them to relatives after examination by the Traffic Police.
Police Launch Investigation and Recover Vehicle
Police recovered the Toyota Harrier wreckage and took it to Kagulu Police Station for mechanical inspection. They are investigating whether additional causes, such as vehicle failure, may have contributed to the Buyende road accident.
Kasadha confirmed that a full inquiry is underway. He said the goal is to determine all the facts and prevent similar incidents.
Public Urged to Avoid Drunk Driving
ASP Kasadha urged motorists to stop drinking and driving. He noted that alcohol remains a leading cause of fatal road crashes in Uganda.
“Driving under the influence risks your life and others’. Please choose safety,” he said.
His message echoes ongoing campaigns to reduce road deaths through behavioral change.
Buyende Community in Mourning
Buyende District is mourning the tragic loss of five promising lives. Local leaders and residents have expressed grief and frustration. They have urged the government to improve road safety and enforcement.
Similar concerns were raised after the recent Arua road accident, where several people also died due to reckless driving.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report, more than 4,500 people died in road crashes in 2023. Many of those cases involved alcohol, overspeeding, or poor judgment.
Government Responds with Infrastructure and Reforms
In response to the rising road fatalities, Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport has prioritized infrastructure upgrades. Recently, Minister Katumba Wamala assured UNRA contractors that the government would clear outstanding debts, allowing critical road works to continue.
The World Health Organization recommends combining strong drunk-driving laws with public education, enforcement, and safer road design. Uganda is gradually adopting such strategies.
A Call for Vigilance and Safe Driving
This Buyende road accident is a sobering reminder of how dangerous Uganda’s roads can be. Drivers are urged to take personal responsibility. Every trip demands caution, whether it’s day or night.
By avoiding alcohol, maintaining safe speeds, and checking vehicle condition, many crashes can be avoided. Buyende’s loss must inspire broader change—before more lives are cut short.
