Friday, April 4, 2026: The fatal accident on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway at Kariandusi near Gilgil has claimed an 11th life as another person died while en route to medical care.
Ten fatalities have been confirmed after a collision between a trailer and a 14-seater matatu at Kariandusi near Gilgil on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway.
The incident took place Saturday morning when a speeding matatu crashed into a stationary trailer, resulting in ten immediate deaths and multiple injuries.
Gilgil Sub-County Police Commander Winston Mwakio confirmed that the trailer had encountered mechanical issues and came to a stop on the roadway before being struck by the matatu.
The police chief reported that the collision resulted in the deaths of 10 matatu passengers at the location.
According to eyewitness accounts, two individuals survived and were transported to a nearby medical facility for care.
Emergency responders, including law enforcement officers and local residents, recovered the bodies from the damaged vehicles and cleared the area.
The severity of the collision was evident from the extensive damage to the front of the matatu.
The Nairobi-Nakuru highway serves as a vital transportation link between the two cities but has witnessed numerous traffic collisions in recent times.
This incident follows a travel advisory issued by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) warning against reckless driving, especially during the Easter holiday period.
NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa announced on Thursday, April 2, increased enforcement against dangerous driving practices and unsafe vehicles to lower accident rates.
The agency will collaborate with the National Police Service (NPS) to enhance enforcement activities on major highways and urban centers during this peak travel time.
He emphasized that dangerous behaviors like speeding, driving under the influence, and operator fatigue continue to be primary contributors to traffic incidents nationwide.
Motorists were urged to follow speed restrictions, refrain from driving after alcohol consumption, and schedule regular rest periods during extended trips.
“In case of vehicle breakdowns, drivers should park completely off the roadway and position warning triangles at an appropriate distance. Vehicles in poor condition, including those with malfunctioning brakes, damaged tires, or defective lighting systems, will face immediate impoundment,” he stated.