Death toll in Kisumu road accident rises to 25

The victims from Nyakach were largely relatives and friends returning from the funeral of a family member in Nyahera area.

by FAITH MATETE

News09 August 2025 - 08:29

In Summary

Olunga said 21 victims died at the scene while four succumbed shortly after arriving at the facility.
He added that 28 patients, including a child, are currently admitted and receiving treatment.

*Health Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Olunga at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral hospital in Kisumu giving an update on the Kisumu Kakamega highway tragedy that left 25 dead.*

The death toll from Friday evening’s grisly road accident along the Kisumu–Kakamega Highway has risen to 25, Health Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Olunga has confirmed.

Speaking at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) late Friday night, Olunga said 21 victims died at the scene while four succumbed shortly after arriving at the facility.

He added that 28 patients, including a child, are currently admitted and receiving treatment.

“We have mobilized all health workers on duty and alerted additional personnel to ensure the injured get the best possible care,” Olunga said.

A blood drive will commence at 9:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Leresian Park within JOOTRH.

“We are also working closely with the county government and surrounding hospitals to respond to this tragedy. Blood donation drives are already underway to meet the needs of those who lost blood.”

The accident occurred at the Coptic roundabout, just outside Kisumu City, when a school bus belonging to AIC Naki High School reportedly lost control, veered off the road, and plunged into a ditch.

The victims from Nyakach were largely relatives and friends returning from the funeral of a family member in Nyahera area.

Olunga, accompanied by Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, lauded the swift response from medical staff, the Kenya Red Cross, and security agencies.

He added that this was tragic news for the entire country, and the entire country is united in this sorrow.

“This is devastating for the entire nation,” the PS said. “We stand with the bereaved families and wish the injured a quick recovery.”

Olunga, accompanied by Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, lauded the swift response from medical staff, the Kenya Red Cross, and security agencies, saying the tragedy has united the country in grief.

“This is devastating for the entire nation,” the PS said. “We stand with the bereaved families and wish the injured a quick recovery.”

Other leaders who joined Dr. Olunga include MPs Rosa Buyu (Kisumu West), Dr. Joshua Oron (Kisumu Central), and Aduma Owour (Nyakach), Dr Greggory Ganda, CECM Health Kisumu County.