“Sadly, 20 children and one adult, who happens to be the founder and director, Mr. Tadeo Ssekade, have gone to be with the Lord. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, loved ones, and the entire King David community,” he said.
A devastating school bus accident in Kapchorwa District has claimed the lives of 21 people, including 20 pupils and the founder and director of King David Junior School, Mr. Tadeo Ssekade.
The tragic crash has left dozens of other pupils injured, prompting an emergency response from health workers, security agencies, and local residents who rushed to rescue survivors.
Minister for Local Government Balaam Barugahara, accompanied by Hon. Simon Mulongo, visited the injured children at various health facilities on Thursday following the accident.
According to the minister, nine children were in critical condition at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, while 16 others are receiving treatment at Kaserem Health Centre. Three more pupils are admitted at Bulambuli Health Centre IV, with the remaining survivors being treated at Kapchorwa Hospital.
Barugahara described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and the entire King David Junior School community.
“Sadly, 20 children and one adult, who happens to be the founder and director, Mr. Tadeo Ssekade, have gone to be with the Lord. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, loved ones, and the entire King David community. We continue to pray for the quick and full recovery of all those still receiving treatment,” he said.
Quoting Psalm 147:3, the minister added, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds,” as he prayed for comfort for the grieving families and healing for the injured pupils.
Barugahara also commended residents of Tingey County and Kaserem, together with regional emergency response teams, for their swift intervention following the crash.
“I sincerely thank the residents of Tingey County, Kaserem, who responded immediately as first responders, together with the regional emergency teams, for their compassion, courage, and tireless efforts in rescuing and caring for the victims. Your selfless service has brought hope to many families during this difficult time,” he said.
The cause of the accident has not yet been officially established, and investigations are expected to determine the circumstances that led to one of the deadliest school transport tragedies in recent years.
As the nation mourns the loss of young lives, leaders and members of the public continue to send messages of condolence and prayers for the victims and their families.