Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads following a tragic accident that claimed 15 lives near Dedan Kimathi University of Science and Technology along the Nyeri–Nyahururu Highway.

The fatal crash, which involved a matatu and a lorry, left several others injured and has once again brought into sharp focus concerns over road safety across the country.

Taking to his official X account on Saturday, March 28, 2026, Kindiki expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, sending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

“Saddened by reports of the loss of 15 people in a tragic road crash near Dedan Kimathi University in Nyeri County. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, and our hope is for the quick recovery of the injured,” Kindiki stated.

Kindiki further delivered a firm message to drivers, emphasising the responsibility they carry whenever they are behind the wheel.

“Drivers, observe safety precautions. Any time you are on the road, remember your own life, the lives of your passengers, and those of other road users are in your hands,” he stated.

Leaders’ reactions

The Nyeri crash has sparked widespread concern, with leaders and citizens alike calling for urgent measures to curb road carnage.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for urgent action by road safety authorities and urged motorists and other road users to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic rules to prevent further tragedies.

Taking to his official X account on the night of Saturday, March 28, 2026, Wetang’ula expressed shock and grief over the incident, while directly challenging the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to take decisive action.

“Devastated to learn of the grisly road accident that claimed 15 lives near Dedan Kimathi University along Nyeri-Nyahururu Highway involving a lorry and a matatu. I continue to call on road users to observe caution and adhere to the laid-out guidelines to avert further loss of lives,” Wetang’ula stated.

“I have challenged the NTSA to tighten road regulations, scrutinise road operations, and establish the status of vehicles and the level of professionalism among drivers.”

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has, on the other hand, called for urgent action to improve road safety following the tragic accident.

Taking to his official X account on the night of Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader described the incident as a national tragedy, expressing deep sorrow for the families affected.

He challenged the authorities responsible for road infrastructure and safety to take immediate action.

He stressed that proper road signage, maintenance, and safety measures should not be treated as optional but as a fundamental right for all Kenyans.

“At the same time, authorities charged with responsibility for the betterment of our roads and signages must ensure such isn’t a privilege but a right for every road user. One life lost, is one too many. May the Almighty God rest the Souls of our Faithful departed in eternal peace,” Gachagua wrote on X.

Nyeri accident

Several people were on Saturday, March 28, 2026, following a gruesome road accident near Dedan Kimathi University of Technology along the busy Nyeri–Mweiga highway.

The fatal crash involved a 14-seater public service vehicle and a heavily loaded lorry carrying massive logs of timber.

Regional Traffic Commandant Elizabeth Vivi, who confirmed the incident, stated that at least 15 people have since been confirmed dead.