Parliament has paid tribute to the victims of Tuesday’s fatal road crash at Bobi Trading Centre along the Kampala–Gulu Highway, with legislators calling for stronger measures to address the increasing number of road accidents in the country.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, who chaired the day’s sitting, led the House in observing a moment of silence in honour of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.
Preliminary reports indicate that the crash claimed 15 lives and left 24 others injured, sparking renewed concerns among lawmakers over road safety and the need for urgent interventions to curb road carnage.
Tayebwa described road safety as a national concern that requires collective responsibility from the government, motorists, and the general public.
Kalungu West Member of Parliament Joseph Gonzaga Ssewungu called on the Ministry of Works and Transport to improve road infrastructure by installing essential road furniture, including traffic signs, road markings, and other safety features, which he said would help reduce accidents.
Meanwhile, Pakwach District Woman MP Jane Pacuto blamed some road crashes on stationary vehicles abandoned on highways after mechanical breakdowns.
She proposed the creation of designated parking bays where disabled vehicles can be towed and safely kept away from busy roads.
Responding to the concerns raised by legislators, Works Minister Fred Byamukama said preliminary findings indicate that over speeding was the main cause of the Bobi Trading Centre crash.
The minister added that the Ministry, in consultation with the Police Traffic Department and other stakeholders, is developing a comprehensive road safety plan that will soon be presented to Parliament.
The lawmakers’ concerns come amid growing calls for improved enforcement, safer road infrastructure, and greater public awareness to reduce road deaths across Uganda.
By Alex Magala
8th July 2026
END