On New Year's Day, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed her condolences to the family of six people who perished in a car accident last week on the Nyeri-Nyahururu road after their vehicle collided with a matatu.
Along with his spouse, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, and other local leaders, DP Gachagua visited the Gatumbo family in Chaka, Nyeri County.
The Deputy President urged drivers, law enforcement, and other pertinent organizations to maintain safety to reduce collisions and fatalities.
Gachagua conveyed President William Ruto's condolences to the family and urged them to stay strong, along with the support of friends and family.
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Alongside the Deputy President at the homestead were Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina, several MCAs led by Thegu River Ward Representative Patrick Wachira, community leaders, members of the clergy, and other prominent figures.
A saloon car and a matatu were involved in an evening collision that resulted in nine fatalities, including children, and numerous injuries. Several hospitals in Nyeri County provide hospitalization to the injured.
"I will be visiting other families in different parts of the country," stated DP Gachagua.
"I am visiting this family as a neighbor and member of this community. We will continue praying for them. We have to stand with you during this difficult moment because losing six family remembers is a big blow," he said.
The loss of a loved one disrupts the organisation structure of the family.
— H.E. Rigathi Gachagua, EGH (@rigathi) January 1, 2024
This afternoon, with my Spouse @Pastor_Dorcas, we condoled with the family of Simon Mwangi Gatumbo in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County.
The family lost six members in a road accident last week along… pic.twitter.com/tvdqsmwMgk
Pastor Dorcas, for her part, advised drivers to exercise caution and vigilance when approaching other road users.
"It is a difficult time for the family and the community for the loss of lives. The family needs prayers to accept the loss and have strength. We came to condole with you, pray with you so that the Holy Spirit can be with you," she said.
"Drivers must be cautious and mindful of other road users. We must be vigilant and accountable on the road."
As per the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), 3,609 individuals perished in traffic-related incidents from January to October 2023.
The most common reasons for fatal collisions were:
Tyre bursts.
Improper overtaking.
Hit-and-runs.
Losing control of a vehicle or motorcycle.
Failing to stay in the correct lane.
According to the statistics, at least 4,690 people died in 2022.