At least 17 individuals, primarily Catholic pilgrims, lost their lives in a tragic multi-vehicle collision on the highway leading to Mombasa, Kenya. The accident occurred in the Salama area, situated approximately 90 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. It happened shortly after midnight, as reported by local police on Saturday.
The incident unfolded when the driver of a truck attempted to overtake another vehicle, resulting in a collision that involved a minibus carrying pilgrims. According to Kenyan media sources, the group was traveling in a 14-seater minibus en route to a prominent prayer site in Nakuru County, located west of Nairobi.
The fatalities included the driver of the minibus and 16 passengers, predominantly women. Martin Kivuva, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa, expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing the grief felt by the community in light of this loss. In his statement, he highlighted the importance of prayers for the victims’ families during this difficult time.
Kenyan President William Ruto extended heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, parishioners, and the broader Catholic community, acknowledging the sense of mourning enveloping those affected by this devastating event. Such support underscores the unity and resilience of communities during times of distress.
In response to the incident, Kenya’s National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has launched a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators were dispatched to conduct a thorough inquiry. The NTSA noted that the highway segment where the accident transpired has been identified as a recurring “black spot,” leading to an ongoing discussion about necessary improvements to enhance safety on this route.
Road safety remains a significant concern throughout Africa, with Kenya facing its share of challenges related to road traffic incidents. Many accidents are attributed to factors such as inadequate vehicle maintenance, excessive speeds, and poor road conditions. According to reports, Kenya experienced 5,009 road traffic fatalities last year, with an alarming 2,150 deaths recorded in the first half of 2026, based on data provided by the NTSA.
This unfortunate event highlights the urgent need for renewed efforts to improve road safety across the region, ensuring that such tragedies do not recur and that communities can continue to practice their faith safely.
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