The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has started reconfiguring the Coptic Roundabout in Mamboleo along the Kisumu–Kakamega highway, days after a tragic accident at the junction claimed 26 lives.

In a statement on Saturday, August 16, KeNHA Deputy Director of Corporate Communication, Samwel Kumba, confirmed that a team of engineers had been deployed to carry out topographical surveys. He explained that the data will guide a redesign aimed at making the roundabout safer for all road users.

“KeNHA has embarked on the reconfiguration of the Coptic Roundabout to accommodate various road user attributes,” Kumba said.

“Following a recent multi-agency site visit, a topographical survey data collection is underway to aid in the reconfiguration as the Authority seeks to come up with an optimal safe solution to address the road safety challenge.”

The agency also appealed to motorists to play their part in reducing accidents by observing traffic rules, ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy, and remaining alert on the road. Figures from the Ministry of Transport show that 2,933 people have lost their lives on Kenyan roads so far this year.

Photos shared widely online on Saturday appeared to show earth movers at the roundabout, with sections covered in piles of soil and debris, blocking part of the junction.

The images fueled public debate on whether the roundabout should have been removed earlier to prevent repeated crashes.

The latest tragedy at the site involved a school bus that veered off the road after the driver reportedly lost control. Nineteen passengers died on the spot, while others succumbed to their injuries during treatment at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital.

A mass funeral for 22 of the victims was held in Naki, Nyakach sub-county, where grieving families gathered to bid farewell to their loved ones.

KeNHA insists the planned redesign will deliver a safer solution and reduce the number of accidents at the notorious junction.