NAIROBI, July 2 (NNN-KBC) — At least 52 people are feared dead after a trailer rammed into several vehicles at Londiani junction along Kericho-Nakuru Highway.
According to Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murokomen, 35 other people are receiving treatment in different hospitals.
The 6.30 pm accident occurred after a truck lost control, running over pedestrians, business people, and matatus that were parked by the roadside.
The truck rammed into four matatus, two lorries, a personal vehicle, and a bus.
The truck was heading to Kericho before it lost control and veered off the road, ramming into tens of hawkers who were busy along the Nakuru-Kericho highway.
Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruyiot, who also visited the scene, called on the government to commission Londioani Sub-County Hospital, citing the lack of adequate health facilities.
He said that most facilities in Kericho were overstretched as victims of the accident were rushed to several hospitals.
Meanwhile, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai said a 50 km per hour speed limit would be enforced at the section.
“The government will foot the hospital and postmortem bills and we will offer other support to the affected families during this time of grieving,” he said.
The governor appealed for blood donations to help those in the hospital.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto is leading the country in mourning the lives lost after the Londiani accident.
“It is distressing that some of the fatalities are young people with a promising future and business people who were on their daily chores. We pray for the speedy recovery of all survivors; you are in our thoughts. We urge motorists to be extra cautious on roads, especially now when we are experiencing heavy rainfall,” he said.
Other leaders who condoled with the families include Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who said the accident spells unspeakable loss to our nation.
“It is painful to lose loved ones at any age, especially in a tragic road accident like this. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones and quick recovery to the survivors of this tragic road accident. I urge maximum care on our roads at all times by all road users.”
On his part, Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen also condoled with the families “I take this opportunity to condole with the families, friends of the bereaved, and wish quick recovery to those injured following this tragic incident.” — NNN-KBC
