President William Ruto and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Oburu Oginga have mourned victims of the tragic road accident at Kanga, near Mtito Andei, along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway in Makueni County, in which 24 people lost their lives.
In a condolence message, President Ruto described the accident as a painful and devastating loss for the affected families and the country, extending his sympathies to the families and friends of those who perished.
The Head of State said the nation shared in the grief of the bereaved families during the difficult period, while wishing those injured in the crash a quick recovery.
Ruto also urged motorists, particularly public service vehicle drivers, to exercise utmost caution and observe traffic rules to protect passengers and other road users.
He further directed relevant authorities to conduct thorough inspections of public service vehicles to ensure compliance with the required safety standards, in a move aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
Meanwhile, ODM leader Oburu Oginga expressed deep sorrow over the accident, describing the loss of lives as an unimaginable tragedy.
Oburu extended his thoughts, prayers and heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, friends and communities affected by the crash, saying the country stood in solidarity with them during the difficult moment.
The accident has renewed calls for greater vigilance on the roads, stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and regular inspections of public service vehicles.
The Nairobi-Mombasa Highway is a major transport corridor serving passenger and commercial traffic between the capital and the Coast, making road safety a critical concern for motorists and transport authorities.
The death toll has since risen to 24, deepening the grief among families and communities affected by the crash.
As a result, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has proposed three road safety reforms focusing on infrastructural changes, traffic law enforcement and oversight.
The ministry, he said, would strengthen the black spot management programme to identify and address high-risk road sections. This is through targeted engineering interventions and other infrastructure improvements.
The transport department also intends to work with relevant government agencies to intensify enforcement against dangerous driving, reckless overtaking, speeding and other traffic violations. This while promoting responsible road-user behaviour.
The ministry also plans to strengthen traffic regulations through engaging the Judiciary and Parliament to address implementation challenges relating to the Commercial Vehicle Regulations 2026, Vehicle Inspection Regulations 2026 and School Transport Regulations 2026.
The accident has renewed calls for greater vigilance on the roads, stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and regular inspections of public service vehicles to prevent further loss of lives.
