•ATC Executive Director, Lucky Onoriode George, PhD
The African Travel Commission [ATC] has extended its deepest condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Uganda following the tragic road accident that occurred on Thursday, 16 July, at Chekwatit Village in Kapchorwa District, eastern Uganda, claiming the lives of several young students and school officials who were returning from an educational excursion to the renowned Sipi Falls.
This was shared in a statement signed by Lucky Onoriode George, PhD, the Executive Director, African Travel Commission [ATC], reports Daily Independent.
“We are profoundly saddened by this heartbreaking tragedy, which has cut short the lives of promising young people whose futures held immense hope and potential. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, the injured, the management of King David Junior School, and all those affected by this devastating incident,” the statement reads.
“The African Travel Commission also stands in solidarity with the Government of Uganda, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Uganda Tourism Board, and the country’s travel and tourism industry. Educational excursions remain an integral part of tourism development, youth education, and cultural appreciation.
“It is therefore particularly distressing when journeys intended to broaden young minds end in tragedy.”
Commenting on the unfortunate incident, the Chairman of the African Travel Commission, Mr Ola Awakan, who is also the Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority [NTDA], said the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for tourism authorities and stakeholders across Africa to strengthen safety protocols for educational and tourism-related travel.
According to Mr Awakan, national tourism organisations, regional tourism bodies, state and local government tourism committees, educational institutions, tour operators, and transport providers must work collaboratively to ensure that comprehensive safety measures are in place, particularly whenever children embark on excursions, educational tours, or other organised trips.
He emphasised that comprehensive risk assessments, vehicle safety inspections, the deployment of qualified and licensed drivers, emergency response plans, adequate adult supervision, and strict compliance with road safety regulations should be mandatory components of every educational excursion.
“This heartbreaking incident reminds us that while tourism creates invaluable opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and national development, the safety and wellbeing of travellers, especially children, must remain our highest priority. No excursion should commence unless all necessary safety standards have been fully met,” Mr Awakan stated.
“The African Travel Commission commends the emergency responders, medical personnel, and local communities who acted swiftly to rescue survivors and provide assistance in the aftermath of the accident.
“The Commission also expresses confidence that the Ugandan authorities will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash and implement appropriate measures to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.”
Reaffirming its commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism across the continent, the African Travel Commission emphasises that the safety and security of tourists remain at the heart of its mission.
“The Commission will work closely with its member countries, governments, national tourism organisations, and other key stakeholders to develop and strengthen appropriate policies, standards, and regulations that will enhance traveller safety and support the sustainable growth and competitiveness of Africa’s tourism sector.
“On behalf of the Board, Management, and members of the African Travel Commission, we convey our heartfelt sympathies to His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Government and people of Uganda, the affected families, the management of King David Junior School, and the entire tourism fraternity across the country.
“May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace. We pray for the speedy recovery of those receiving medical treatment and for strength, comfort, and healing for all who mourn this profound loss.”
