Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has called on the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to urgently redesign the Kisumu-Kakamega highway following a tragic accident at the Coptic area that claimed 26 lives.
Speaking after visiting injured victims at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) early Saturday morning, the governor praised the care given but warned that the road’s dangerous design continues to cause fatal accidents.
“The number of people who have died at that corner is many. No week passes without an accident there. In fact, it is nicknamed Kona Mbaya,” Nyong’o said.
He revealed that just days before the crash, he had remarked on the section being a “crisis waiting to happen.”
“The design of the roundabout and the slope make it dangerous even for motorists who are not speeding. I have spoken to the Prime Minister, who has promised to raise the matter with the national government and KeNHA,” Nyong’o added.
The governor emphasised that the redesign should address not only the roundabouts but the entire highway structure.
Deputy Governor Mathews Owili described the section as a “death trap” and called on the national government to act immediately.
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron expressed similar concerns, noting that the spot has witnessed “countless” fatalities over the years.
“Unless the relevant authorities intervene, we will continue losing lives,” Oron warned.
Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor also condemned the roundabouts between the Coptic, Specialist Hospital, and Grand Royal Swiss Hotel, calling them poorly constructed.
“These roundabouts are outdated and must be removed. Across the world, especially in developed countries, authorities are phasing them out for safer designs,” Owuor said, pledging to push for their removal.
Lumumba Owada, South East Nyakach MCA, Owada, urged swift action.
“We are giving the authorities time. If they don’t act fast, as a leader, I will mobilise the people to get rid of it,” he said.
The local leaders vow to push for immediate road safety interventions to prevent further tragedies along this busy highway.
