A tragic road accident in the Migaa area of Molo, Nakuru-Eldoret Highway, claimed the lives of 14 people early Friday morning. The accident involved a trailer and a Kitale Shuttle matatu, with all onboard the matatu perishing in the crash.
According to police reports, the trailer’s driver lost control, ramming into the matatu and dragging it for some distance. The impact was devastating, instantly killing 12 passengers in the matatu and two people from the lorry. The victims included nine males, four females, and a child. Emergency responders arrived at the scene but were unable to save anyone trapped in the wreckage. The bodies have since been moved to the mortuary for autopsy and further investigation.
Police spokesman Michael Muchiri confirmed that Migaa is a well-known black spot, notorious for fatal accidents. He urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when approaching the area, emphasizing the need for stricter adherence to road safety measures. Authorities have launched an awareness campaign aimed at reducing the rising number of fatal road accidents in the country.
The accident highlights a worrying trend in Kenya’s road safety. Official statistics reveal that road fatalities have been increasing. Between January and November 2024, at least 4,282 people lost their lives in road crashes, up from 3,901 in the same period in 2023. Furthermore, 21,620 accidents were recorded within the same timeframe in 2024 compared to 20,191 in 2023.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) attributes the increase in fatal crashes to reckless driving, including hit-and-runs, tyre bursts, and loss of vehicle control. Head-on collisions, often caused by improper overtaking and failure to maintain lanes, are also significant contributors.
Authorities continue to implement safety measures to curb road carnage, including stricter enforcement of traffic laws, driver education, and improved road conditions. However, the frequency of accidents in black spots like Migaa indicates a need for more rigorous interventions.
As families mourn the tragic loss of their loved ones, road safety agencies and drivers alike must work together to prevent such devastating accidents. Motorists are urged to observe traffic rules, drive cautiously, and prioritize safety to avoid further loss of lives on Kenyan roads.
