Two killed, seven injured as trailer hits boda boda riders at Kegati

A grisly road accident at the Kegati area along the Kisii-Keroka highway has resulted in the deaths of two people, with seven others sustaining various injuries. The incident occurred on Friday evening when a trailer reportedly lost control and rammed into boda boda riders operating in the busy trading center.

Emergency response teams arrived at the scene shortly after the 8:19 pm alert to find wreckage scattered across the tarmac. The injured, some of whom are in critical condition, were rushed to the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital for urgent medical attention.

Police have launched an investigation into the mechanical state of the trailer involved. Preliminary reports suggest the driver may have struggled with braking systems while navigating the stretch of road, which is known for its high volume of heavy commercial transit and motorcycle traffic.

The Kisii-Keroka road remains a vital link for regional trade, yet it has faced increasing scrutiny over safety standards. The residents have previously called for the installation of additional speed bumps and improved lighting at the Kegati junction to protect vulnerable road users from high-speed vehicles.

This latest tragedy occurs as the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) continues to oversee spot improvements and drainage works across the Kisii region. Despite ongoing maintenance efforts, the frequency of heavy vehicle accidents involving boda bodas has prompted calls for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations.

Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic environment as onlookers gathered to assist the victims. The bodies of the deceased were moved to the morgue as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and restore the flow of traffic on the busy highway.

Infrastructure experts note that while the road surface has seen periodic maintenance, the lack of dedicated lanes for non-motorized transport and motorcycles contributes to such fatalities. Public works officials in Kisii County have been urged to expedite safety audits on major black spots along the Keroka corridor.

The incident highlights the persistent risks faced by the transport sector in Western Kenya. As the investigation continues, traffic police have cautioned drivers to observe speed limits and ensure vehicles are roadworthy, particularly when navigating the hilly terrain and sharp bends characteristic of this route.