KAMPALA, Uganda – UNICEF is deeply saddened by the recent road accidents that have claimed the lives of school-going children in Uganda, leaving families, schools and communities in mourning.
In a statement issued Today, UNICEF Representative to Uganda, Dr Robin Nandy, expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragedies and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
“On behalf of UNICEF, I extend heartfelt condolences to the families, classmates and communities affected. No parent should send a child to school and never see them return home.” He stressed that the deaths were preventable and urged all stakeholders to treat road safety as a child rights priority.
“These are preventable deaths, and every child lost on Uganda’s roads is one too many. Every child has the right to travel to school and return home safely. Road safety is a child rights issue, linked to survival, education and a safe environment,” Dr Nandy said.
UNICEF welcomed the Government of Uganda’s efforts to improve road safety, including stronger enforcement of traffic regulations and measures introduced by the Ministry of Education and Sports following the recent accidents.
The organisation commended the ministry’s decision to suspend all school trips temporarily and strengthen guidelines governing school travel.
Under the new measures, schools have been directed to use only licensed and roadworthy vehicles operated by qualified and well-rested drivers. Schools are also required to conduct proper risk assessments before journeys and ensure adequate teacher supervision throughout every trip. However, Dr Nandy said more must be done to prevent further loss of young lives. “We need more urgent action to reduce speeding near schools, provide safe crossings and walking paths, and strengthen emergency care,” he said.
UNICEF noted that road traffic injuries remain the leading cause of death among children and adolescents aged between five and 19 years globally, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the greatest burden.
