By Richard Onapatum
Napak, Uganda—May 11, 2025
A pregnant woman, a nurse, a lab technician, and an attendant sustained injuries after an ambulance overturned in Lopeii Village, Napak District, early Sunday morning.
The vehicle, registration number UAY 237Y, operated by Kotido General Hospital, was transporting the expectant mother to St. Kizito Hospital Matany when the driver reportedly lost control, leading to the crash.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, stating that the ambulance was swaying on the road before flipping over. Locals rushed to assist, pulling the victims from the wreckage before medical personnel arrived.
Concerns Over Staffing and Driver Experience
While authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, sources within the district suggest that the driver had recently been transferred, raising concerns about possible inexperience or unfamiliarity with the route.
Community members have expressed frustration, questioning whether Kotido General Hospital’s personnel reassignment played a role in the accident.
An eyewitness remarked, “The ambulance was unstable before it crashed. We don’t know if the driver was new, but something seemed off.”
Emergency Response and Treatment
Dr. Cerino Acar, Napak District Health Officer, confirmed that all four injured individuals were swiftly evacuated to Matany Hospital for urgent treatment.
“The victims received immediate medical attention upon arrival. While their conditions remain critical, we are monitoring their progress closely,” he stated.
Unverified Reports on Driver’s Transfer
As investigations continue, unverified reports suggest administrative challenges in Kotido General Hospital’s staffing system, with speculation that the driver’s transfer may not have followed standard procedure.
Officials have yet to issue a statement regarding these allegations, but local authorities have urged calm as inquiries proceed.
Victims’ Conditions Remain Uncertain
As of this report, the condition of the pregnant woman remains unknown, and medical teams at St. Kizito Hospital Matany are closely monitoring her situation alongside the injured medical personnel.
The incident has sparked concerns about emergency transport safety, staffing protocols, and hospital policy transparency, prompting calls for a review of ambulance operations and personnel management.
Community leaders have stressed the need for better road safety measures and oversight to prevent similar accidents in the future.