On Wednesday morning, a devastating collision occurred on the Mombasa highway, resulting in the deaths of two Dutch tourists.
The accident took place around 7 AM in the Mariakani Maji Ya Chumvi area, involving a van carrying the tourists and a trailer. In addition to the fatalities, two other tourists, along with their driver and guide, sustained injuries and have since been admitted to a local hospital in stable condition. National Police Service Spokeswoman Dr. Resila Onyango has confirmed the incident, noting that the van was en route to Nairobi at the time of the crash.
This tragic event further exposes ongoing concerns about road safety on the Mombasa highway which has a notorious reputation for high rates of fatal accidents. Recent statistics reveal a worrying trend in road safety. Between January and November 2024, 4,282 lives have been lost in road accidents, a significant increase from 3,901 fatalities during the same period in 2023.
Reports indicate a rise in serious injuries as well, with 10,662 cases recorded this year compared to 9,501 in the previous year. Pedestrian fatalities have particularly surged, with 1,637 deaths reported so far in 2024, up from 1,413 in 2023. Passenger deaths also rose from 673 in 2023 to 788 this year. In total, 21,620 road accidents were reported in the first eleven months of 2024, compared to 20,191 during the same timeframe in 2023.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has identified primary causes of these accidents, including hit-and-runs, tyre bursts, and loss of vehicle control, alongside improper overtaking practices and lane violations that contribute to head-on collisions. In reaction to the alarming increase in road fatalities, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has announced plans to deploy additional traffic police officers to enhance safety on the highways.
He stresses the importance of a multi-agency strategy, collaborating with the NTSA to conduct road safety compliance checks and to implement crackdowns on major highways. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission is also engaged in efforts to combat corruption related to road safety, particularly during the festive season. As the country approaches this holiday period, heightened police presence and visibility are anticipated.
Specialized units, including Formed Police Units and undercover officers, will be actively patrolling in urban areas, near critical infrastructure, and various public venues to ensure the safety of all road users.
