Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on New Year condoled with a family that lost six relatives after the car they were travelling in collided with a matatu along the Nyeri-Nyahururu road.
The DP visited the family of Sammy Mwangi Gatumbo at their home in Chaka, Kieni, Nyeri county, accompanied by his spouse Pastor Dorcas Rigathi and local leaders where he called on motorists, security and relevant agencies to ensure road safety to curb accidents.
Gachagua who delivered President William Ruto's condolence message encouraged the family, friends, and relatives to remain strong during this difficult moment.
He promised to visit other families that lost kin across the country.
"I am visiting this family as a neighbour and member of this community. We will continue praying for them. We have to stand with you during this difficult moment because losing six family remembers is a big blow," he said.
Pastor Dorcas urged motorists to be vigilant, careful and mindful of other road users.
"It is a difficult time for the family and the community for the loss of lives. The family needs prayers to accept the loss and have strength. We came to sympathize with you, pray with you so that the Holy Spirit can be with you," she said.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga called on motorists to be keen while driving and mindful of other road users.
"Drivers must be cautious and mindful of other road users. We must be vigilant and accountable on the road," Kahiga said.
The road accident which involved a saloon car and a matatu claimed nine lives and left scores injured. The injured are undergoing treatment in various hospitals in Nyeri county.
Samuel Maira Nderitu who sustained serious injuries is admitted to the Intensive Care Unit while Margaret Kirigo Mwangi and Catherine Wanyu Mwangi are in HDU.
This family lost loved ones in the accident that occurred on December 28, 2023, as they were travelling back home from Christmas festivities.
Those who perished in the accident are Rachel Nyawira Mwangi, 18, Brian Macharia, 14, John Muikaru,18, Blessed Mwangi Njenga, Grace Njenga and Victor Njenga aged between 3 and 8.
According to reports from the National Transport and Safety Authority, 3,609 people lost their lives in road accidents between January to October 2023.
The report also indicates that the leading causes of fatal crashes include improper overtaking, failing to keep the proper lane resulting in head-on collisions, hit-and-runs, tyre bursts and vehicles and motorcycles losing control.
The report also showed that in 2022, at least 4,690 people lost their lives in road accidents
