Spotlight on government agencies after Nyeri horror crash kill 15 in Mweiga
A fresh wave of grief has swept across the country following a tragic road accident along the Nyeri–Mweiga Road that claimed 15 lives, once again highlighting the government’s struggle to curb rising road carnage.
The fatal crash occurred on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Nyeri-Mweiga Road area in Nyeri County and involved a 14-seater matatu and a lorry ferrying logs.
According to police reports, the lorry driver reportedly swerved to avoid hitting cyclists, leading to a head-on collision with the matatu.
This compounds to unending fatal crashes that have turned Kenyan roads into highways of terror.
In the first 30 days of January this year alone, records by the National Police Service (NPS) showed that the country recorded 398 road traffic deaths between January 1 and January 30, marking an 11 per cent increase compared to the 358 fatalities reported during the same period last year.
The figures point to a worsening road safety situation at the start of 2026.
Data from the NPS Traffic Department shows that 854 accidents were reported in January 2026, slightly higher than the 850 crashes recorded in January 2025.
The total number of victims rose to 2,032, representing an 8 per cent increase from last year. Police say the trend underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement and greater responsibility among all road users.
Speaking on NTV’s Fixing the Nation, NPS Traffic Department liaison officer Boniface Otieno said the surge in fatalities was deeply concerning, prompting intensified enforcement efforts. He noted that vulnerable road users continue to bear the brunt of road carnage.
Following last weekend’s accident in Mweiga, Nyeri county, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed the incident, stating that 15 people died on the spot while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals.
“Fifteen people died on the spot, while others were taken to hospitals,” Chirchir said, noting that initial reports had indicated 10 fatalities before the toll rose.
Emergency responders were quickly deployed to the scene to assist victims and secure the area, as authorities launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Central Regional Police Commander Jasper Ombati said those injured were receiving treatment in various health facilities, even as police continue piecing together details of the accident.
The tragedy comes amid growing concern over road safety in the country. Earlier incidents had already claimed seven lives in separate accidents involving pedestrians, motorcycle riders, and a cyclist, with at least 14 others left seriously injured.
In the wake of the Nyeri crash, President William Ruto sent a message of condolence to the bereaved families, expressing sympathy for those affected.
“Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to the victims of the road accident that occurred near Dedan Kimathi University in Nyeri County,” the President said, adding that the national government is working closely with the Nyeri County administration to respond to the situation.
Chirchir also conveyed his condolences, assuring affected families of the government’s support during the difficult period.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Roads and Transport, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and communities who have lost their loved ones. We stand with you during this moment of profound grief and sorrow, and we pray for the swift recovery of those injured,” he said.
He further pledged decisive action, noting that authorities, including the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), will intensify enforcement, audits, and compliance checks across highways.
“Through NTSA and other enforcement agencies, we will enhance accountability and protect all road users. Let us all choose safety, responsibility, and respect for life. Every life matters,” Chirchir said.
