A tragic road accident along the Sagana-Karatina Highway in Kirinyaga County has claimed five lives. The incident occurred on Friday morning, November 22, 2024, in the Kibirigwi area.
According to eyewitnesses, a lorry transporting maize lost control before it veered into two oncoming vehicles. The collision left one person with critical injuries.
Local residents quickly rushed to the accident scene to help rescue victims trapped in the wreckage. The community’s swift response demonstrated remarkable solidarity during the crisis.
Footage of an accident involving two cars and a lorry along the Karatina-Sagana Highway in Kirinyaga County on Friday, November 22, 2024. Courtesy photo
The impact of the collision was severe. The lorry sustained significant damage to its front section, while both cars were completely destroyed in the crash.
Maize from the lorry spilled across the highway, creating hazardous conditions for other motorists. The scattered grain served as a stark reminder of the force of the impact.
Emergency services arrived shortly after the accident. The Kirinyaga County Disaster Management team worked alongside local police officers to manage the situation.
The accident caused massive traffic disruption on the busy highway. Many motorists had to seek alternative routes to and from Kirinyaga town.
Law enforcement officers have launched investigations into the cause of the accident. They will examine factors such as vehicle condition, speed, and other potential contributing circumstances.
This tragic incident follows recent government efforts to enhance road safety. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi had recently ordered a crackdown on unroadworthy vehicles.
The directive specifically targeted public service vehicles. It required all PSVs to display proper registration details and maintain current inspection status.
This accident bears striking similarities to another recent tragedy. Just two weeks ago, ten people lost their lives in an accident on the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway.
In that incident, a trailer lost control at Iguhu bridge in Chavakali. It collided with two 14-seater matatus, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
The rising number of road accidents has raised concerns about highway safety in Kenya. Authorities are increasingly focusing on implementing stricter traffic regulations.
Local leaders have called for enhanced safety measures on the Sagana-Karatina Highway. They emphasize the need for better enforcement of traffic rules and regular vehicle inspections.
The National Transport and Safety Authority continues to urge motorists to exercise caution. They particularly stress the importance of maintaining vehicles in roadworthy condition.
Road safety experts recommend defensive driving techniques to prevent such accidents. They emphasize the need for constant vigilance and adherence to speed limits.
The incident has reignited discussions about road infrastructure improvements. Local authorities are considering additional safety features along this stretch of highway.
As investigations continue, authorities have appealed to witnesses to come forward. Any information about the accident’s circumstances could help prevent future tragedies.
The loss of five lives in this accident highlights the ongoing challenge of road safety in Kenya. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of careful driving and vehicle maintenance.
