Deadly Nairobi–Mombasa Highway Collision Leaves Eight Dead

Eight people have died following a collision between a passenger bus and a matatu on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway near Konza City.

The crash occurred late on Friday when the two vehicles collided head-on. Six people were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others later died from injuries at Machakos Level 5 Hospital. Health officials said five injured passengers have since been treated and discharged, while others remain in hospital. Chief Officer for Medical Services Rashid Kalla said the situation at the facility was stable and extended condolences to the affected families.

Police investigations indicate that the matatu, which was travelling from Nairobi, attempted to overtake before colliding with the oncoming bus. Mukaa Sub-county Police Commander Hussein Abduba said preliminary findings pointed to dangerous driving and urged motorists to exercise caution. 

The incident is one of several serious road crashes reported across major highways within the past 24 hours. In Kikopey on the Gilgil–Nakuru road, a matatu was rear-ended by a foreign-registered truck that failed to keep a safe distance. The impact pushed the matatu into a stationary trailer, worsening the collision. In a separate incident at Taita Village along the Nairobi–Mombasa route, a Janan Bus Services vehicle left its lane while overtaking, injuring several passengers. No deaths were reported in that crash.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) said it was concerned by the series of accidents, citing unsafe overtaking, poor lane discipline and failure to maintain safe following distances as common factors. In a statement, the Authority said these behaviours continue to pose serious risks on the roads and confirmed that investigations into the incidents are ongoing.

The Authority also warned that traffic volumes are expected to increase ahead of the reopening of schools next week. It urged drivers to observe speed limits, avoid reckless manoeuvres and ensure their vehicles are in proper condition before travelling.