MOMBASA, Kenya – The Technical University of Mombasa has explained the circumstances that led to the road accident that claimed the lives of two students and injured 29 others along the Nairobi-Kisumu highway, as the institution mourns an immense loss.
In a statement issued on Friday, August 7, Vice Chancellor Prof Laila Abubakar explained that the bus ferrying the students lost control while trying to avoid a head-on collision with an oncoming over-speeding saloon car.
Abubakar stated that the bus overturned near Ahero, claiming the lives of two male students while 29 others sustained injuries.
“Tragically, while approaching Ahero, the last bus carrying mourners was involved in a road accident after the driver attempted to avoid a head-on collision with an oncoming over-speeding saloon car. In the process, the driver lost control of the bus, causing it to roll. Regrettably, two of our male students lost their lives in the accident. 29 students sustained injuries,” the statement read in part.
Hospitalisation of victims
The Vice Chancellor confirmed that the injured victims are currently receiving treatment at Lisa Hospital in Ahero and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu.
She offered her heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the victims who lost their lives in the tragic accident.
“We mourn this immense loss together and pray that the Almighty grants the departed eternal peace while giving their families the strength and comfort to bear this heartbreaking loss,” the statement continued.
Counselling support
Prof Abubakar disclosed that students and staff experiencing grief, shock or emotional distress will receive support from the TUM Guidance and Counselling Services.
She further urged members of the public to refrain from spreading rumours and misinformation or sharing graphic images and videos.
“Please rely only on official communication sources, and respect the dignity and privacy of those affected,” she said.
Background of the trip
The bus that crashed in Ahero had ferried students to Kisumu to pay their last respects to former student leader Elvis ‘Beast’ Otieno, who passed on after suffering an epileptic attack.
Earlier, Siaya Governor James Orengo offered condolences to the families of the TUM students who lost their lives in the road accident.
