Two killed in Jinja fatal crash
The taxi driver, identified as Job Ssemakula, has been detained at Jinja Central Police Station as investigations continue.
Jinja: Traffic police in Jinja City are investigating the cause of a deadly road accident that occurred on the morning of May 1 at the Gadafi Roundabout.
The crash involved a taxi with registration number UAS 239E) and a motorcycle with registration number 566F, both of which were heading toward the city’s central business district from Bugembe.
According to SP James Mubi, spokesperson for the Kiira Region Police, the motorcycle rider whose identity is still unknown and his passenger, Brian Mutesasira, died on the spot.
Their bodies were transported to the Jinja Regional Referral Hospital mortuary. A third person, also a passenger on the motorcycle, sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the same facility.
The taxi driver, identified as Job Ssemakula, has been detained at Jinja Central Police Station as investigations continue.
SP Mubi urged all road users to exercise caution, avoid overspeeding, and refrain from overtaking at dangerous road points. “We emphasize vigilance and respect for traffic rules, especially at intersections and roundabouts,” he said.
He noted that boda boda riders are often the most vulnerable on the road. “Most accidents we record involve motorcycles being knocked by vehicles like taxis and trailers,” he added.
The tragic incident adds to the growing concern over Uganda’s worsening road safety situation.
According to a 2024 report from the Traffic Police Directorate, headed by Assistant Inspector General of Police Lawrence Niwabiine, road crashes claimed 5,144 lives in 2024, up from 4,806 in 2023. This translates to approximately 14 deaths per day an increase from 13 daily fatalities the previous year.
The report further noted that most accidents occur between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., aligning with the timing of the May 1 crash.
Authorities continue to stress the need for improved road discipline and enforcement as Uganda grapples with an alarming rise in traffic-related deaths.
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