Matatus warned after series of students' deaths on roads

The Ministry of Education has issued a new directive to all drivers following two accidents in Homa Bay on Wednesday, April 2, which caused the deaths of three students.

In a statement, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged drivers transporting students home for the April holidays to exercise caution on the roads.

"On my behalf and on behalf of the Ministry of Education, I send our condolences to the bereaved families and also wish a quick recovery to all those injured in the two accidents," he said in the statement.

"I appeal to motorists to strictly adhere to the traffic regulations to safeguard lives, especially during this week when learners will be travelling to their homes for the April holidays."

Nyakach OCPD, Lairanus Odinga, said the accident took place on a sharp curve and that the truck, which had been parked, lacked proper signage.

He added that the vehicle had just picked up pupils from the school following its closing ceremony and was heading to Kisumu town when the crash occurred.

The latest figures from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for 2025 highlight that road accidents continue to be a significant concern in the country, with cyclists and pedestrians being the most affected groups.

According to the NTSA, an average of 13 people lose their lives in road accidents each day, with a majority of these incidents linked to factors such as drunk driving, driver distractions, speeding, and driver fatigue.