Kenyatta University in Kenya has been plunged into mourning following a devastating bus accident that resulted in the loss of eleven third-year students and left many others critically injured. The incident occurred on Monday evening when the bus, carrying 54 students on an academic trip to the Kenyan coast, collided with a truck in Maungu on the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, approximately 356 kilometers from the capital Nairobi.

Of the passengers, ten students lost their lives on the scene, while one succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at the Moi county referral hospital in Voi. Additionally, twenty-one students sustained serious injuries, with seven critically injured students airlifted to Nairobi for urgent medical attention. Among those onboard was a lab technician.

Initial reports from the police indicate that the accident transpired as the bus driver attempted to overtake a fleet of vehicles during a heavy downpour. Eyewitnesses, including one of the survivors, recounted that the most severely injured students were seated towards the back of the bus.

In response to the tragedy, Kenyatta University suspended all classes for three days, commencing Wednesday, March 20, to mourn the loss of the beloved students. Professor Waceke Wanjohi, the university's deputy vice-chancellor, expressed condolences and emphasised the institution's commitment to supporting the affected families and providing assistance to the injured.

The university swiftly mobilised teams from its main and coastal campuses to assess the situation, provide support to survivors, and gather accurate information. Professor Paul Wainaina, the university's vice-chancellor, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, affirming that the university community stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time.

The tragic incident has reignited concerns about road safety in Kenya, especially following another fatal collision involving students in Baringo, Rift Valley, just days earlier. Kenya’s cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Kipchumba Murkomen, assured the public that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accidents and pledged to implement measures to enhance road safety enforcement.

Research Beeline Limited family extends our heartfelt condolences to the extire Kenyatta Univeristy flaternity following this unfortunate event. We wish those students recovering in different hospitals speedy and full recovery. 

Photo Courtesy / Google

Article by Jed Mwangi