An accident has occurred along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway between Voi and Mutitu, causing a massive snarl-up that has affected both lanes of the road.

In a statement by the Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association, a truck and a trailer had collided head-on, causing traffic along the major highway.

“An accident has occurred at Kanga bridge between Mutitu and Voi. No traffic movement on both sides,” the statement read.

Causes of accidents

The accident comes in the wake of a report by the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Davis Chirchir, which blamed road infrastructure, driver behaviour, and conditions of the vehicles for the accident witnessed on the roads.

“Our findings underscore that poorly maintained roads, reckless driving, and vehicle defects remain the leading causes of fatalities,” Davis Chirchir said

Chirchir further explained, “Treatment and improvement of hazardous road sections is a priority. We are working with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to ensure vehicles comply with KS 372:2019 standards through strict inspection processes.”

School reopening measures

With schools reopening nationwide, the ministry has urged motorists to exercise extra caution.

“Drivers and motorcyclists must ensure their vehicles are well maintained, appropriately licensed, and that they drive slowly around educational institutions,” Chirchir noted.

He also reminded pedestrians, “Your safety must come first. Always use designated crossings, avoid distractions such as phones, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road.”

The ministry is also focusing on public awareness campaigns to promote safer driving practices. “Continued efforts in road user education and law enforcement are key to reducing fatalities and preventing accidents,” Chirchir added, emphasising that every stakeholder has a role to play.

Commitment to safer roads

The Cabinet Secretary concluded by pledging the government’s ongoing commitment to road safety: “We remain dedicated to working with all partners to make our roads safer for every Kenyan. Fatalities on our roads are preventable, and coordinated action is crucial to save lives.”

The statement comes amid a particularly deadly August, with traffic accidents and other incidents claiming dozens of lives in just the first weeks of the month.