President William Ruto has sent a message of condolence following a deadly crash in Nyeri County on Saturday, March 28, 2026, that claimed 15 lives.
In a statement posted on his X account, the President pledged support to the families of the deceased and wished a quick recovery to those injured.
“We pray for the swift recovery of those injured. The national government, in conjunction with the county government of Nyeri, is engaging with the affected families and will provide all necessary support during this difficult time. Pole sana,” he said.
His deputy, Kithure Kindiki, also expressed his sympathies in a message on social media.
“Saddened by reports of the loss of 15 people in a tragic road crash near Dedan Kimathi University in Nyeri County. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, and we hope for the quick recovery of the injured,” Kindiki said.
He urged drivers to be cautious on the roads, reminding them of their responsibility for the safety of others.
“Any time you are on the road, remember your own life, the lives of your passengers, and those of other road users are in your hands,” he advised.
The crash involved a 14-seater public service vehicle belonging to Nyekicha Sacco and a lorry transporting firewood. Several passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Nyeri County Referral Hospital in critical condition.
Police and eyewitnesses said the lorry driver swerved while trying to avoid hitting a cyclist, lost control, and crashed head-on into the matatu, which was travelling from Nyeri town to Mweiga.
The impact left the matatu badly damaged, with parts of the vehicle crushed and debris scattered across the road. Rescue teams arrived quickly and worked to pull victims from the wreckage.
Emergency crews used specialised tools to access those trapped inside the vehicles, and the injured were taken to hospital as families gathered, waiting for updates on their loved ones.
Nyeri Regional Traffic Commandant Elizabeth Vivi confirmed the deaths and said investigations had begun.
“Ten males succumbed on arrival at Nyeri Provincial General Hospital. One juvenile also succumbed, bringing the total number of fatalities to 15 so far,” she said.
The tragedy comes as the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) earlier this month signalled a raft of proposed traffic reforms aimed at tightening enforcement and reducing road fatalities.
The measures include a review of speed limits on major roads following complaints from motorists over controversial instant fines, which have since been suspended by NTSA.
In a statement, the authority said the withdrawal was necessary to provide clarity on procedures for handling minor traffic offences under Section 117 of the Traffic Act.
“This withdrawal has been necessitated by the realisation that the public needs to understand the details and standard procedure for handling minor traffic offences as defined in Section 117 of the Traffic Act,” the statement read.