Twelve people have lost their lives in two tragic road accidents in Limuru, Kiambu County, within a span of less than 24 hours, sending shockwaves across the region and reigniting concerns over road safety on Kenyan highways.
The latest incident occurred on Friday morning at the Kamandura junction on the busy Nairobi-Nakuru highway. A 14-seater matatu belonging to Kijabeline Sacco lost control, veered off the road, and plunged down a steep slope, rolling multiple times. According to Limuru OCPD Mary Gachie, the matatu was en route from Nairobi to Kijabe town when the accident occurred at around 8:00 a.m.
Five passengers died on the spot, while two others succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment. Four additional passengers sustained critical injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at Tigoni Hospital. The cause of the accident is under investigation, though eyewitnesses cited speeding and possible brake failure.
The Kamandura crash occurred barely a kilometre from the site of another deadly accident that took place on Thursday evening. In that incident, a private vehicle reportedly suffered a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control. Three occupants of the vehicle died on the spot, while two others later died in hospital.
Authorities have since towed the wreckage from both accidents to the Tigoni Police Station as investigations continue. Limuru OCPD Gachie emphasized the need for heightened vigilance among drivers, especially along the notoriously hazardous stretch of the highway.
Local leaders and residents have expressed grief and called for urgent road safety interventions, including the erection of speed bumps, enhanced signage, and increased police patrols in accident-prone areas.
The twin tragedies have once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, regular vehicle inspections, and public awareness campaigns to curb the rising number of fatalities on Kenyan roads.
As families mourn their loved ones, the incidents serve as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the pressing need for collective efforts to improve road safety for all.
