A tragic accident in Kisumu County has left 21 people dead after a school bus carrying mourners rolled over along a rural road.
The victims were part of a funeral procession traveling in a school bus, which was being used to ferry family and friends to a burial.
According to local authorities, the vehicle lost control and overturned while navigating a sharp bend in the Nyakach area. Several others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
The bus, reportedly belonging to a local secondary school, had been hired for the funeral journey. Witnesses at the scene said the bus appeared to be speeding downhill before the driver lost control.
“We heard loud screams and rushed to the scene. It was heartbreaking bodies were lying on the ground, and survivors were in pain,” said one eyewitness.
Rescue teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, police, and local residents, responded quickly. Those with serious injuries were taken to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital and Nyabondo Mission Hospital.
Police have confirmed that an investigation is underway to establish the exact cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest overloading and possible brake failure could be factors.
Kisumu County Commissioner and traffic officials have urged drivers to be cautious, especially when transporting large groups for long-distance travel. They also reminded the public that school buses are not licensed for commercial use, especially for non-student travel, like funerals.
Families of the victims have been left devastated, and local leaders have called for support for the bereaved. Messages of condolence have poured in from across the country, with many Kenyans taking to social media to express their sorrow and anger over continued road accidents caused by negligence.
This incident adds to the growing concern over road safety in Kenya, especially during festive seasons and major public events when travel increases.
The government has promised to provide assistance to the affected families and is reviewing safety policies around the use of school vehicles.
