8 Killed as Matatu Plunges into Mbagathi River

At least eight people have been confirmed dead after the matatu they had boarded plunged into Mbagathi River on the morning of Saturday, May 18. 

Police said eight people died on the spot. The ill-fated vehicle belongs to the NABOKA Sacco which plies the Ongata Rongai-Nairobi route.

According to the police, the driver of the vehicle lost control seeing it overturn to the river.

Earlier, the Kenya Red Cross had reported that thirteen people were nursing injuries in a Nairobi hospital after being involved in the accident.

In an update, the Kenya Red Cross said the accident happened near the Hardy Police Station in Karen, Nairobi county.

"Thirteen people have been rushed to hospital after a PSV minibus lost control and overturned near Hardy Police Station in Karen. Emergency response efforts continue thanks to the County Government, Kenya Red Cross, and well-wishers," said the Kenya Red Cross.

Meanwhile, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) recently established a new unit targeting motorists on all major highways across the country.

In a notice, KeNHA announced the newly formed unit will play a critical role in clearing motor vehicles left on various roads by drivers. 

The new unit will impound and remove the vehicles which pose risks to other road users. The drivers of the impounded vehicles will further be prosecuted.

"In an effort to enhance road safety, the Authority has established a unit which shall assist in clearing obstructions on the national road network including removing motor vehicles which have a potential of compromising the safety of road users," KeNHA said.

"Parking /obstruction by motor vehicles is prohibited under Section 53 of the Traffic Act, Cap. 403 and hence such vehicles shall be subject to prosecution when impounded," the authority insisted.

Besides removing stalled vehicles, KeNHA also vowed to put proper signs showing available parking areas along busy highways.

"The Authority will endeavor to install signs where safe parking on the highways is available," KeNHA added.

To help the newly formed unit deliver its mandate, KeNHA advised other road users to report such motorists by calling: 0800-211-244, which is operational on a 24-hour basis.

The new unit is expected to reduce the number of road accidents caused by stalled vehicles on major highways countrywide.