In the early hours of Saturday, a tragic crash on the Nairobi‑Mombasa highway in the Salama area of Kenya claimed 17 lives, the majority of whom were Catholic pilgrims en route to a prayer site in Nakuru County. Police say the accident occurred after a truck driver attempted an unsafe overtaking maneuver, striking a van that was carrying the pilgrims.

The van’s driver and its 16 passengers, most of them women, were killed at the scene. The victims were traveling from Nairobi toward the coastal city of Mombasa when the collision happened just after midnight.

Religious community mourns

Martin Kivuva, archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa, issued a statement expressing profound grief. He said he and the broader Catholic community are “saddened with lots of grief” over the loss of so many faithful on a pilgrimage meant for spiritual renewal.

President William Ruto also offered his condolences, addressing the families, friends, parishioners, and the entire Catholic community “who are mourning this painful loss.” The president’s remarks underscored the nation’s shared sorrow and the importance of supporting those affected.

Road safety concerns

Road crashes remain a serious public‑safety issue across Africa, and Kenya is no exception. Officials frequently cite poorly maintained vehicles, excessive speed, and inadequate road conditions as contributing factors. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) described the stretch where the crash occurred as a “black spot,” a term used for high‑risk road segments that have seen multiple serious incidents.

In response, the NTSA called on all motorists to exercise extreme caution, avoid dangerous overtaking, and strictly observe lane discipline. The agency reiterated that recommendations to improve safety on this corridor have been made, urging the government and private sector to prioritize road‑maintenance and enforcement measures.

Looking ahead

The tragedy highlights the need for continued investment in Kenya’s transport infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Community leaders, faith‑based groups, and government officials are urged to work together to prevent future loss of life on the nation’s highways.

While the investigation into the exact causes of the crash continues, authorities have pledged to provide support to the families of the victims and to review safety protocols on the Nairobi‑Mombasa route.

Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.