In a devastating accident at the Londiani Junction along the Kericho-Nakuru highway, over 55 people were tragically killed on Friday, June 30. The incident occurred when a trailer lost control and collided with multiple Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) before rolling into a nearby market, claiming more lives in its path.

Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying scene as the trailer rammed into the parked matatus and boda boda operators stationed at the pick-up stage. The impact of the crash was so severe that some victims were thrown into an adjacent ditch, creating a grim and distressing sight.

As news of the accident spread, Kericho Governor Erick Mutai Kipkoech expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged the local residents to remain calm. The governor assured the public that emergency response teams were mobilized, with ambulances on standby and health facilities prepared to provide immediate assistance.

Kericho Women Representative Beatrice Kemei, deeply affected by the incident, called on the emergency response teams across the country to expedite the rescue operation. She sent her sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones and offered healing prayers to the injured.

Emergency service providers swiftly arrived at the scene to assess the victims and administer first aid before transporting them to nearby hospitals for further medical attention. Police were also deployed to cordon off the area and manage the traffic flow on the busy highway.

At the time of reporting, the exact number of casualties was still undisclosed. The authorities were working diligently to gather accurate information and support the affected families during this difficult time. This tragic incident highlights the ongoing road safety concerns in the country.

Data released by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) revealed a slight decrease in road fatalities during the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. However, the numbers remain alarming, with pedestrians comprising the highest number of casualties followed by motorcyclists, passengers, pillion passengers, drivers, and pedal cyclists.

The Londiani accident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.