Seven Killed, More Than 30 Injured After Matatu Rolls Several Times in Makueni

At least seven people have been confirmed dead and more than 30 others seriously injured after a 45-seater matatu lost control and rolled several times in Makueni County.

The crash occurred at Ikangavya Sub-location along the Emali-Ukia Road on Friday evening, according to reports from the scene.

The vehicle was carrying family members and friends from Nthongoni in Kibwezi East who were travelling to the Maumba area in Ikangavya for a dowry ceremony.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, the matatu lost its brakes while descending a steep section of the road before rolling several times.

The injured passengers were taken to different health facilities for treatment, including Makueni County Referral Hospital and Matiliku Sub-County Hospital.

The scale of the crash has made it one of the weekend's major road tragedies, with more than 30 people reported to have sustained serious injuries.

Authorities had not released further details on the circumstances surrounding the crash beyond the information provided by emergency responders.

The incident occurred along the Emali-Ukia Road, a route that has previously been the subject of discussions over its condition and upgrading.

Government records identify the Emali-Ukia road as part of an East African economic corridor in Makueni County. The route has also been the subject of parliamentary questions concerning its status and long-delayed upgrading.

The latest crash again puts attention on road safety along the route, particularly given the steep section where the matatu reportedly lost its brakes.

The circumstances surrounding the vehicle's mechanical condition, including the brake failure reported by the Kenya Red Cross, will be important as authorities establish what happened before the crash.

The deaths also come amid heightened road safety concerns during the weekend, when increased travel can place additional pressure on major routes.

Seven families are now mourning after what was supposed to be a journey connected to a family ceremony ended in tragedy, while more than 30 injured passengers continue receiving medical attention.

Further details on the identities of those killed, the condition of the injured and the circumstances surrounding the crash are expected from authorities.