The African Travel Commission (ATC) has expressed condolences to Uganda over a fatal school excursion crash that claimed several lives.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr Lucky George, and made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, ATC sympathised with victims’ families.
The accident occurred on July 16 at Chekwatit Village in Kapchorwa District, eastern Uganda, involving students and officials returning from an excursion to Sipi Falls.
ATC described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that cut short the lives of promising young people with immense potential.
The commission expressed solidarity with Uganda’s Government, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Tourism Board and the country’s tourism industry.
ATC Chairman, Mr Ola Awakan, said the crash should serve as a wake-up call for African tourism authorities and stakeholders to strengthen safety protocols.
Awakan, who is also Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, urged governments, schools, tour operators and transport providers to ensure safer educational excursions.
He said comprehensive risk assessments, vehicle inspections, qualified drivers, emergency plans, adult supervision and road safety compliance should accompany every organised excursion.
“This heartbreaking incident reminds us that while tourism creates invaluable opportunities for learning, cultural exchange and national development, safety and wellbeing must remain our highest priority,” Awakan said.
He stressed that no educational excursion should commence until all required safety standards had been fully met, particularly where children were involved.
The commission commended emergency responders, medical personnel and local communities for rescuing survivors and assisting victims after the accident.
It expressed confidence that Ugandan authorities would conduct a thorough investigation and implement measures to prevent similar tragedies.
ATC reaffirmed its commitment to responsible tourism and pledged continued collaboration with governments and stakeholders to strengthen traveller safety across Africa.
The commission extended condolences to President Yoweri Museveni, affected families, King David Junior School and Uganda’s tourism community.
It also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the crash.
