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Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed condolences on New Year’s Day to a family that tragically lost six members in a recent road accident. The accident occurred when their car collided with a matatu on the Nyeri-Nyahururu road. Accompanied by his spouse, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, and local leaders, DP Gachagua visited the home of Sammy Mwangi Gatumbo in Chaka, Nyeri County.
During the visit, Deputy President Gachagua called for increased safety measures by road users, security forces, and relevant agencies to prevent accidents and fatalities. He encouraged the grieving family, friends, and relatives to remain resilient and conveyed President William Ruto’s condolences.
The delegation accompanying DP Gachagua included Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina, several MCAs led by Thegu River Ward Representative Patrick Wachira, community leaders, and clergy, among others.
The fatal night accident, involving a collision between a saloon car and a matatu, claimed the lives of nine individuals, including children, and left multiple others injured. The injured victims are currently receiving medical attention in various hospitals across Nyeri County.
Deputy President Gachagua emphasized his commitment to visiting other affected families across the country. He stated, “I am visiting this family as a neighbor and member of this community. We will continue praying for them. We have to stand with you during this difficult moment because losing six family members is a big blow.”
Pastor Dorcas highlighted the importance of drivers being vigilant and considerate of other road users. She expressed condolences, stating, “It is a difficult time for the family and the community for the loss of lives. The family needs prayers to accept the loss and have strength. We came to condole with you, pray with you so that the Holy Spirit can be with you.”
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) reported that between January and October 2023, 3,609 people lost their lives in road accidents. The leading causes included improper overtaking, failure to keep the proper lane resulting in head-on collisions, hit-and-runs, tyre bursts, and loss of control by vehicles and motorcycles. In 2022, at least 4,690 fatalities were recorded.
