Two radio presenters killed in Kirinyaga road accident

Wreckage of Toyota Probox involved in an accident along the Sagana - Makutano highway in Kirinyaga County. [Timothy Kariuki, Standard]

Two radio presenters died on the spot following a road accident involving a motorcycle and a Toyota Probox at Riandira Trading Centre along the Sagana-Makutano Highway in Kirinyaga County.

The deceased were a producer and a presenter from Radio Thome, a local online community radio station based in Ngurubani town.

Mwea West Sub County Police Commander Rashid Ali said the motorcycle and the Toyota Probox were both heading towards Makutano town from Sagana when the accident occurred.

"The motorcycle, driven by 21-year-old Stephen Waigwa with 20-year-old Caroline Kamunya as the pillion passenger, was on the left lane. As they reached Riandira SDA Church, the motorcycle suddenly turned right to join an interchange and was hit by the Probox on the right side,"said Ali.

The impact killed both Waigwa and Kamunya instantly. The driver and passengers of the Toyota Probox sustained various injuries and were rushed to different hospitals for treatment.

"The motor vehicle and the motorcycle were extensively damaged and have been towed to Sagana Police Station for inspection," added Ali.

Mwangi wa Wangu, the head of Radio Thome, said the two had left Kutus town, where the station staff was celebrating the station's fourth anniversary.

"We spent the day in a very jovial way, with our listeners joining us to celebrate four years of our existence," said Mwangi.

"In the evening, the two left early for church evening prayers, only for us to receive a call later that they had an accident."

Mwangi expressed the community's grief over losing two young and talented individuals with promising futures in broadcasting.

"We are still in shock. Losing two members of staff after such a joyful and wonderful day is not easy," he said.

The bodies have been taken to Kerugoya Hospital Mortuary for postmortem.