31 Kenyans Killed in Road Accident in First Six Days of 2026

At least 31 people have been killed in a series of road accidents recorded across the country within the first six days of 2026, highlighting renewed concerns over road safety, speeding, and driver fatigue on Kenyan highways.

The latest fatalities were reported on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, after eight people lost their lives in separate accidents in Kericho and Baringo counties, pushing the cumulative death toll since January 1 to alarming levels.

Dozens more were injured in the crashes and are receiving treatment in various hospitals.

In Kericho County alone, six people were killed when a passenger bus collided with a trailer at Tunnel Mendera along the busy Londiani–Muhoroni road.

The crash involved a bus operated by Uwezo Company, which was carrying 64 passengers at the time of the accident.

Survivors of the crash told investigators that the bus was being driven at high speed moments before the collision, with several alleging reckless driving and failure to observe traffic rules.

Also Read: Drivers and Conductors Issue Four Demands to NTSA, Transport Ministry Over Rising Road Accidents

Survivors recount terrifying moments

One of the surviving co-drivers, Samuel Magambo, narrated how events unfolded before the crash, revealing possible fatigue behind the wheel.

“I drove up to Naivasha, then received a call that another driver should take over to pick up another vehicle, and I continued to Kisumu. I went to the back to sleep. When the second driver took over, it seemed like he was dozing while on the steering wheel,” Magambo said.

Kericho County Health Services Coordinator Florence Waiboke confirmed that multiple casualties were rushed to nearby health facilities.

“Thirty-three patients were taken to Fort Tenan. They were stabilised, and those who required specialised care were transferred to Kericho Referral Hospital,” she said.

Passengers travelling from Nairobi to Port Victoria in Busia County accused the driver of speeding and distraction.

Survivor Rosemary Adeke said the bus was overloaded and the second driver ignored safety concerns.

“The first driver was careful, but when he handed over, the second driver was speeding, on the phone and chewing. When passing bumps, he would apologise but continue ignoring warnings,” she said.

Also Read: NTSA Responds After Multiple Fatal Accidents Claim Lives Within 24 Hours

Police warn over dangerous road sections

Kericho Police Commander James Ngetich cautioned motorists against reckless driving, particularly on known black spots.

“This area has many corners and a steep descent. My appeal is that motorists must obey traffic laws,” he said.

In a separate incident at Block 4 along the Nakuru–Eldoret highway in Baringo County, a boda boda rider and his passenger were killed after being hit by a trailer heading towards Nakuru.

Their bodies were taken to Eldama Ravine Hospital mortuary.

Meanwhile, in Kimende, Kiambu County, 45 students narrowly escaped death after the Guardian Angel bus they were travelling in lost control and overturned.

Ten students sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at Kijabe Hospital.

Resident George Njoroge blamed driver exhaustion for the accident.

“In this accident, it seems the driver was mentally tired, which caused the crash. Long-distance vehicles should have two drivers,” he said.

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