African Travel Commission urges stricter safety for school excursions after Uganda crash
via Punch Nigeria9 min read
The African Travel Commission has extended its condolences to Uganda following a road crash on July 16, 2026, in Chekwatit Village, Kapchorwa District, which resulted in the deaths of students and school officials from King David Junior School during an educational excursion to Sipi Falls. In a statement signed by Executive Director Lucky George, the commission expressed sympathy to the affected families and solidarity with the Ugandan government and tourism bodies. Ola Awakan, Chairman of the African Travel Commission and Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, highlighted the tragedy as a call to action for African tourism authorities and stakeholders to enhance safety protocols for educational and tourism-related travel. Awakan emphasized the necessity of risk assessments, vehicle safety inspections, the use of qualified drivers, emergency response plans, adequate adult supervision, and strict adherence to road safety regulations for all organized trips involving children. The commission commended emergency responders and expressed confidence that Ugandan authorities would investigate the accident thoroughly to prevent future tragedies, reaffirming its commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism across Africa.
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