Kigezi Regional Police have reported a sharp increase in road crashes over the past two months, with 10 fatalities and multiple serious injuries recorded in 26 incidents, according to Kigezi Regional Police Spokesperson Nelson Tumushime. The accidents, primarily occurring along the Kanungu-Rukungiri-Ntungamo and Kabale-Kisoro-Mbarara routes, have prompted intensified patrols targeting reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, dangerous overtaking, and drunk driving. Tumushime emphasized the need for public cooperation in addressing the crisis, citing a recent collision in Rukungiri District that killed four and injured over 30 when an Isuzu truck carrying pilgrims failed to navigate a curve and struck a boda boda rider.
On September 20, 2026, 19-year-old Rodgers Akanyijuka, a cyclist from Kahondo Village in Kabale District, was killed after being struck by a runaway trailer. In another fatal crash in Rubanda District on Monday, a Toyota Noah vehicle collided with a pedestrian, killing Rev. Sr. Mary Gorret Tugumenawe Kenda, 58, of Kabale Diocese, and an unidentified adult male. Six others, including Jenerus Katushabe, Abed Hakiza, and Hamis Garuka, sustained serious injuries. Tumushime stated that police operations will continue to focus on enforcing traffic laws and improving vehicle safety standards, urging drivers to avoid overloading and maintain mechanical integrity.
Tumushime reiterated calls for motorists to prioritize caution, stating, "Speed kills and life has no spare parts," and encouraged vehicle owners to ensure regular maintenance. He also urged the public to report reckless drivers, while appealing to religious leaders, local authorities, and educational institutions to collaborate on road safety campaigns. The police spokesperson highlighted the human cost of the crisis, noting that the recent fatalities include a priest, a cyclist, and a Rwandan national, underscoring the urgency of systemic interventions to prevent further loss of life.
The rising toll has intensified concerns about road safety in Kigezi, with officials stressing the need for collective action. As the region grapples with the consequences of unsafe driving practices, the police continue to emphasize preventive measures and community engagement to curb the trend. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the risks posed by negligence on the roads, prompting renewed calls for accountability and awareness across the community.