African Travel Commission (ATC) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of several students and school officials in Uganda, urging African countries to strengthen safety measures for educational and tourism-related travel.
The fatal crash occurred on July 16, 2026, at Chekwatit Village in Kapchorwa District, eastern Uganda, as students and officials of King David Junior School were returning from an educational excursion to the popular Sipi Falls tourist destination.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Lucky Onoriode George, the Commission extended its condolences to the Government and people of Uganda, the bereaved families, the management of King David Junior School, and all those affected by the tragedy.
ATC Chairman, Mr. Ola Awakan, who is also the Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), described the incident as a painful reminder of the need to prioritise safety in educational excursions and tourism activities across Africa.
According to Awakan, national tourism organisations, regional tourism bodies, educational institutions, tour operators and transport providers must collaborate to ensure strict compliance with safety standards whenever children embark on educational tours or organised trips.
He stressed that comprehensive risk assessments, vehicle safety inspections, the use of qualified and licensed drivers, emergency response plans, adequate adult supervision and adherence to road safety regulations should be mandatory for every excursion.
“This heartbreaking incident reminds us that while tourism creates invaluable opportunities for learning, cultural exchange and national development, the safety and wellbeing of travellers, especially children, must remain our highest priority. No excursion should commence unless all necessary safety standards have been fully met,” Awakan said.
The Commission also commended emergency responders, medical personnel and local communities for their swift efforts in rescuing survivors and providing assistance following the accident.
It expressed confidence that Ugandan authorities would conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash and implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Reaffirming its commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism across Africa, the ATC said it would continue working with member countries, governments and tourism stakeholders to strengthen policies, standards and regulations aimed at enhancing traveller safety and supporting the sustainable growth of the continent’s tourism sector.
The Commission further conveyed its sympathies to Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Government and people of Uganda, the affected families, the management of King David Junior School and the country’s tourism community, while praying for the repose of the deceased and the speedy recovery of those injured.
