A head-on collision between a saloon car and a truck along the Masaka–Mbarara Highway has claimed seven lives from the same family in Lwengo district.
The crash, which occurred on 27th December, 2025, in the wee hours of the morning at approximately 4:30 a.m. near @Njagalakasayi village, involved a Silver Toyota Fielder registration number (UBH 476W) and a Fuso Fighter truck (UBP 510V).
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Toyota Fielder, coming from Masaka, tried to overtake a line of vehicles and ended up in a head-on collision with the oncoming Fuso truck that was heading to Masaka.
All seven occupants of the Toyota Fielder including a man, his wife, their four children, and the man’s brother died on the spot.
In a statement released on 27th December, 2025 by SP Michael Kananura, the Public Relations Officer for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, he urged motorists to avoid reckless overtaking, especially at night when visibility is limited.
He also advised drivers to limit night travel when possible and ensure they are well-rested to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
“Night travel is particularly risky when drivers are fatigued. We urge motorists to rest well before long journeys and always prioritize safety, as road accidents can destroy lives in an instant,” SP Kananura stated.
This tragic crash adds to a pattern of serious accidents on the Masaka–Mbarara Highway in 2025 as it is one of Uganda’s busiest routes and contains numerous black spots where blind overtaking, sharp bends, and inadequate signage contribute to elevated risk levels, especially during festive seasons when traffic volumes surge.
Earlier in 2025, a Tausi bus caught fire while en route from Masaka to Mbarara; fortunately, all passengers escaped safely, highlighting ongoing safety concerns on this highway.
Nationwide, police traffic reports in 2025 indicate a rise in road accidents, with unsafe overtaking, reckless driving, speeding, and other dangerous behaviours accounting for a significant proportion of collisions.
Authorities continue to urge all road users to exercise caution, adhere to traffic rules, and prioritize safety, particularly on busy highways like the Masaka–Mbarara route.
With reckless driving and unsafe overtaking remaining major contributors to fatal crashes, responsible driving remains the most effective way to prevent further loss of life.
