A Makome bus travelling from Gulu to Kampala knocked an elephant near Karuma, leaving several passengers injured and one person feared dead, according to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
Bashir Hangi, Head of Communication and Public Relations at UWA, confirmed that the elephant was later found alive but in severe pain.
“We have successfully located the elephant that was knocked by the Makome bus. It is walking with serious pain. We have discharged our vets to assess the injuries and undertake the necessary veterinary interventions,” Hangi said.
The accident occurred along the Karuma–Pakwach highway, a section that cuts through Murchison Falls National Park and is known for frequent wildlife crossings. Hangi urged motorists to exercise caution in such areas.
“Sometimes, it is not only animals that die but humans too,” he warned.
Social media users reacted strongly to the incident. Prince James Nadiope called it “unfortunate” and urged government to impose stricter penalties on drivers who hit animals in protected areas. Another user, Max Perutz, recounted encountering elephants on the same road recently, advising drivers to remain vigilant.
The accident has revived concerns over road safety and wildlife conservation, with UWA stressing the need for motorists to slow down in areas where animals frequently cross.
