The African Travel Commission [ATC] sends its deepest sympathies to the Government and people of the Republic of Uganda following the tragic road accident that took place on Thursday 16 July at Chekwatit Village in Kapchorwa District, eastern Uganda, which claimed the lives of several young students and school officials returning from an educational excursion to the renowned Sipi Falls.
This was revealed in a statement signed by Lucky Onoriode George, PhD, Executive Director, African Travel Commission [ATC], Daily Independent reports.
“We are very disappointed by this tragic incident that has taken the lives of young promising people with a bright future ahead of them. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, the injured, the management of King David Junior School and all other persons affected by this devastating incident,” the statement read.
“The African Travel Commission also throws its support behind the Government of Uganda, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Uganda Tourism Board and the travel and tourism industry in Uganda. Educational excursions are an integral part of tourism development, youth education and cultural appreciation.
“It is therefore all the more tragic when trips meant to broaden young minds end in tragedy.”
Commenting on the unfortunate incident, Mr Ola Awakan, Chairman of the African Travel Commission and 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. Africans & Diaspora.
Mr Awakan said it was up to national tourism organisations, regional tourism bodies, state and local government tourism committees, educational institutions, tour operators and transport providers to work together to make sure they had all the safety measures in place, especially when children go on excursions, educational tours or other organised trips.
He said all educational trips should include detailed risk assessments, vehicle safety checks, the employment of competent and licensed drivers, emergency response plans, appropriate adult supervision and strict adherence to road safety laws.
“This tragic incident reminds us that while tourism offers priceless opportunities for learning, cultural exchange and national development, the safety and well-being of travellers, particularly children, must always be our top priority. “All necessary safety standards should be fully met before any excursion commences,” Mr Awakan said.
“We commend the emergency responders, medical personnel and local communities that responded quickly to rescue survivors and provide assistance in the wake of the accident.
“The Commission also remains confident that Ugandan authorities will conduct a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash and take appropriate measures to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.”
The African Travel Commission reaffirms its commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism throughout the continent and underscores that the safety and security of tourists is at the core 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 sustainable growth and competitiveness of Africa’s tourism sector.
On behalf of the Board, Management and members of the African Travel Commission, we wish to extend 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 countrywide.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace. We pray for the recovery of those seeking medical treatment and for strength, comfort and healing for all who mourn this terrible loss.”
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