Six lives were lost in a tragic accident on Saturday, involving students from Dr. Aggrey Boys’ High School. The accident occurred along the Wundanyi-Mwatate Road, specifically in the notorious Josa bend, claiming the lives of four students, the driver of their minibus, and a parent who had gone to pick up their child. This loss has left the community in mourning.
The accident took place after the students were sent home following a second fire incident at their school. The minibus they were traveling in suffered brake failure, leading to the fatal crash. The fire incidents, which had occurred earlier that day and just two days prior, prompted the school administration to send the students home as a precautionary measure.
In his heartfelt message, Cabinet Secretary for Education, Julius Ogamba, expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased, offering comfort during this unimaginable time. “On my behalf and that of the Ministry of Education, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and relatives of the deceased. We pray that God grants them strength and fortitude during this difficult time,” Ogamba said in a statement on Sunday.
The tragedy was compounded by the earlier fires at Dr. Aggrey Boys’ High School, which had been swiftly dealt with by students, the local community, and the county fire department, preventing further damage or injuries. The cause of these fires remains under investigation. The school was closed indefinitely, with all students sent home to ensure their safety.
As the community mourns, Ogamba also wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured in the accident. “May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,” he added, acknowledging the profound loss the school and local community had suffered.
Survivors of the accident were quickly rushed to Moi Referral Hospital in Voi for medical attention, while others were taken to St. Joseph Mission Hospital. The local authorities and emergency responders have been lauded for their swift action in handling the aftermath of both the fire incidents and the tragic accident.
As Dr. Aggrey Boys’ High School continues to grapple with this devastating incident, the entire nation stands in solidarity with the families, friends, and the school community in their time of mourning.