A fatal road accident on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway has claimed the lives of two people and left 11 others injured the crash occurred near the Emali area in Makueni County during the early morning hours, bringing traffic to a standstill as emergency services rushed to the scene. According to witnesses, the accident involved a passenger van and a cargo truck, which collided head on while attempting to overtake other vehicles. The impact was so severe that the van was badly mangled, trapping several passengers inside. Local residents and motorists were among the first to offer assistance, trying to free the injured as they awaited help from the authorities.
Makueni County Police Commander Peter Mutua confirmed that two passengers died on the spot, while the injured were rushed to the nearby Makindu Sub-County Hospital for emergency treatment. Some of the victims suffered severe injuries and were later transferred to Nairobi for specialized care. Among the injured were two children, who are currently in critical condition.
We are investigating the cause of the accident but preliminary findings indicate reckless overtaking and speeding Commander Mutua stated. He also urged motorists to exercise caution on the highway which has seen an increase in accidents due to heavy traffic and speeding vehicles.
The Nairobi-Mombasa Highway is one of Kenya’s busiest transport routes serving as a key corridor for goods and passengers between the capital and the coastal city of Mombasa. However it is also notorious for road accidents with several high-fatality crashes reported in recent years.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has expressed concern over the rising number of accidents on this stretch of road. The agency has called for stricter enforcement of speed limits and enhanced road safety awareness campaigns to curb reckless driving.
Families of the victims have expressed their shock and grief over the tragic incident, calling for swift action to prevent further accidents on the highway. We have lost too many lives on this road. Authorities need to do more to ensure drivers follow the rules said one family member at the scene.
As investigations continue the government has reiterated its commitment to improving road safety across the country with plans to introduce more stringent penalties for traffic offenses. Meanwhile Kenyans mourn the loss of life in yet another tragic road accident hoping for safer travels in the future.
Ennywealth