Two teachers and a learner have died following two separate road accidents in Nairobi and Nyeri counties, sparking renewed concern over road safety involving teachers and learners.
In Nairobi County, a public service bus rammed into a group of teachers leaving Nairobi Branch union elections at City Primary School in the Ngara area. One teacher died on the spot, while another succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment. At least 26 other teachers were injured and rushed to hospitals across the city, including Aga Khan Hospital in Parklands, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi West Hospital, Scholastica, Radiant, and Mater Hospital. Thirteen teachers are receiving urgent care at Aga Khan, with some undergoing surgery.
KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori described the incident as devastating, saying, “The entire KUPPET family is heartbroken over this tragic loss of life.” He added that union officials are on the ground ensuring the injured teachers receive the necessary medical attention and support.
Despite the tragedy, the electoral process at City Primary School resumed after an emergency interruption and is expected to proceed to its conclusion.
In a separate incident in Nyeri County, a van carrying 25 learners from Mahehe Friends Academy and Abadia Academy lost control, resulting in the death of one learner while receiving treatment in hospital. Several other learners sustained injuries and were rushed to medical facilities for care.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba termed the two incidents “heartbreaking,” saying, “We have received heartbreaking news of two accidents that claimed the lives of two teachers and a learner earlier today.”
He said the government has activated a coordinated multi-agency response, involving the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the Ministry of Health, the Teachers Service Commission, and the affected county governments.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Education, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and relatives of the deceased,” Ogamba said, adding, “We pray that God grants them strength and fortitude during this difficult time, and for a quick recovery for those who are injured.”
The Education CS also urged motorists and other road users to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic rules to prevent further loss of life.
KUPPET has indicated it will support the affected families and is calling for investigations into the Nairobi accident to avert similar tragedies in the future.
