At least six killed in Kericho-Kisumu highway accident

At least six people were killed Tuesday night in a road accident after a lorry rammed into a group of pedestrians along the Kericho-Kisumu highway.

Police said the crash occurred in the Kipsiget area after the driver of the lorry lost control and ploughed into the pedestrians.

Four others sustained serious injuries in the incident, according to Soin Police Commander Lawrence Kisini.

“The lorry was heading to Kisumu from Kericho when the driver reportedly lost control. One woman and three men died on the spot, while two others succumbed to their injuries while being rushed to the hospital,” said Kisini.

He added that the injured were taken to Kericho County Hospital for treatment, and investigations are underway to establish the circumstances of the accident.

The fatalities brought to more than 12 the number of people killed in separate crashes reported across the country on Tuesday alone.

The other victims included three riders, two drivers, and a passenger.

Police also reported that 14 people were seriously injured in the accidents, among them seven passengers, three pedestrians, a driver, and another passenger.

According to police, the injured are receiving treatment in various hospitals.

Fatal accidents have been on the rise despite ongoing efforts to curb the trend.

Data shows at least 2,933 people lost their lives in crashes between January and August 2025, with thousands more injured.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed the grim figures, noting that 80 fatalities had been recorded in just four days.

“Crash data indicates a total of 2,933 fatalities between January 1 and August 10, 2025. Unfortunately, 80 of these occurred over the past four days,” Chirchir said.

He added that following the surge in accidents involving public service vehicles, private cars, and commercial trucks, a multi-agency team is conducting safety audits on key road segments to identify risks and recommend corrective measures.

The team is expected to complete the audit within seven days and submit technical recommendations aimed at preventing further loss of lives.

Chirchir further said the government is working with stakeholders to implement short, medium, and long-term measures under Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan 2024–2028.

He added that efforts to strengthen road safety legislation, covering school transport, commercial vehicle operations, drink-driving, vehicle inspections, roadside stations, and a review of the Traffic Act, are at advanced stages.