In a shocking turn of events, Kiambu County’s nominated Member of County Assembly, Ezra Kabuga Kihara, tragically lost his life in a fatal accident on Sunday, September 22, 2024. The incident occurred along Thika Road, near Mang’u High School, around 5:30 AM as Kabuga was driving from Nairobi to Thika town. Eyewitness reports indicate that his vehicle collided head-on with a lorry, resulting in a devastating fire that engulfed the car shortly after the impact.
The news of Kabuga’s untimely demise has sent ripples of grief throughout the Kiambu community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fellow leaders and constituents. Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi was among the first to express his sorrow over the loss. He took to social media to share a heartfelt message, describing Kabuga as a “vibrant and promising young leader” whose dedication to public service was evident in his work. Wamatangi emphasized that Kabuga’s commitment to improving the lives of Kiambu residents was palpable, stating, “His work in the County Assembly and Kiambu will be remembered as proof of his commitment to making a difference.”
Ezra Kabuga, known for his passionate advocacy and approachable demeanor, had made significant contributions to the county assembly during his tenure. Colleagues have recalled his friendly nature and unwavering drive to uplift those around him. His loss is being felt deeply, as many view him as a beacon of hope for the future of Kiambu’s leadership. Local leaders are now calling for improved road safety measures to prevent similar tragedies, underscoring the urgent need for heightened awareness of road safety regulations and driver responsibility.
The incident on Thika Road is part of a worrying trend of road accidents in Kenya, particularly involving heavy vehicles. Just hours after the news of Kabuga’s accident, another tragic incident occurred in Machakos, where a single individual was killed following a collision with a trailer. This incident involved a pickup truck that also crashed into a trailer from behind, illustrating the dangers faced by motorists on the country’s roads. Reports indicate that the deceased in the Machakos accident died at the scene, while two others were injured and subsequently transported to Machakos Level 5 Hospital for treatment. Governor Wavinya Ndeti commended the Muumandu ambulance crew for their prompt response, highlighting the critical role of first responders in such emergencies.
The repeated occurrences of road accidents have ignited discussions among policymakers and community leaders about enhancing road safety measures. Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, better driver education programs, and increased awareness campaigns aimed at reducing reckless driving. Many believe that if these issues are not addressed, more lives will be lost on the roads.
Ezra Kabuga’s tragic passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safe driving practices. His commitment to public service and his vision for a better Kiambu will not be forgotten, and many hope his legacy will inspire future leaders to prioritize community safety and engagement.
As the community mourns, tributes continue to pour in for Kabuga, who is remembered not only for his political contributions but also for his genuine concern for the welfare of his constituents. The sense of loss is palpable, as friends, family, and colleagues gather to honor his memory and reflect on the impact he had during his brief time in office. The road to recovery for the Kiambu community will be long, but the hope is that through unity and action, they can create a safer environment for all.
In the wake of this tragedy, it is crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and prioritize road safety, ensuring that accidents like the one that claimed Ezra Kabuga’s life are not repeated. As the investigation into the accident continues, the community of Kiambu and beyond will keep Kabuga’s memory alive, striving to honor his commitment to service and leadership.
