Rigathi Gachagua has urged stronger road safety enforcement following the fatal crash near Mtito Andei.
Rigathi Gachagua calls for stronger road safety enforcement as NTSA and police investigate the fatal collision on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged road safety authorities to protect travellers after the Mtito Andei crash killed 22 people. The collision occurred on Sunday morning at Kanga, along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway.
In a statement on X, Gachagua described the deaths as a painful loss for the country. He also called on agencies responsible for enforcing road safety rules to strengthen protection for motorists and passengers.
His appeal comes ahead of the festive season, when more Kenyans prepare to travel home. He urged authorities to enforce safety measures to prevent avoidable deaths on major highways.
NTSA investigates Mtito Andei crash
The collision involved a public service vehicle and a commercial vehicle. Preliminary reports indicated that the vehicles collided head-on.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) said improper overtaking may have contributed to the accident. However, investigators have yet to establish the full circumstances of the collision.
NTSA confirmed that its crash investigation team was working with police on the inquiry. Investigations remain ongoing as families mourn the 22 people who died.
The tragedy has also renewed concerns about safety on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. Passenger buses, commercial trucks and private motorists all use the major transport corridor.
Gachagua urges caution during rainy season
Meanwhile, Gachagua urged motorists to take extra care during the ongoing rainy season. Wet conditions can affect visibility, braking distances and drivers’ ability to control their vehicles.
He also asked road users to exercise caution as holiday travel approaches. Traffic volumes typically increase on major highways during the festive season, making his appeal particularly timely.
Alongside his call for stronger enforcement, Gachagua stressed the need to prevent deaths linked to negligence and recklessness. His statement did not establish the cause of this collision, which remains under investigation.
The former deputy president also offered condolences to families who lost loved ones in the crash. He wished those injured a speedy recovery and prayed for those who died.
