NTSA condoles families after fatal Naki High School bus crash
By Faith Lagat, August 9, 2025The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in a horrific bus crash along the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway on Friday, August 8, 2025.
The tragic incident involved a Naki High School bus carrying 61 family members returning from a burial in Nyahera, Kisumu West sub-county. The crash claimed 21 lives and left 21 others injured, marking one of the deadliest accidents on this route in recent years.
NTSA launches investigation
In an official statement posted on their X account dated August 9, 2025, NTSA Director General George Njao extended heartfelt sympathies to the victims’ families.
“The Authority takes this moment to condole with the families of those who lost their lives through the tragic crash along the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway involving a Naki High School bus. We further extend our heartfelt wishes for a swift and full recovery to everyone injured in the crash,” read the NTSA statement.
To determine the cause of the accident, NTSA has dispatched a team of road safety auditors to the scene near the Coptic roundabout, a known black spot. The Authority promised to provide further updates as investigations continue.
Hospital confirms casualties
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) confirmed the grim toll, reporting that 19 bodies were brought directly from the accident site, with two additional unidentified adult males and a male child succumbing to injuries upon arrival. The hospital noted that staff moved swiftly to receive and treat survivors, currently admitted in the Emergency and Accident Unit and reported to be in stable condition.
JOOTRH described the Coptic roundabout as a notorious accident-prone area, highlighting poor road design and inadequate signage as key contributing factors. The hospital has also set up a dedicated help desk for families affected by the tragedy and remains on high alert to respond to any further emergencies.
President calls for action
President William Ruto responded to the tragedy by directing traffic enforcement officers to intensify road safety operations nationwide. “Our prayers are with the victims of the terrible accident that occurred tonight on the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway. May the Almighty give strength to the families to bear with the loss. We wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” he posted on X.
The President called for swift action against negligence and a crackdown on traffic violations to prevent further loss of life. As investigations proceed, calls are growing for urgent improvements to road infrastructure to prevent such tragedies in the future.