Nyong’o donates Sh1 million for Kisumu crash victims’ burials

Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o addressing hundreds of residents and relatives outside Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) morgue, where families had come to collect bodies of the Coptic accident victims, August 15, 2025. /ANYANG NYONG'O

Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o has contributed Sh1 million to support the burial expenses of the 26 people who died in a tragic road accident at Coptic Roundabout on August 8.

The governor announced the donation on Friday while addressing hundreds of residents and relatives at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), where families had come to collect the bodies.

“To support the affected families, I have personally donated Sh1 million, which is in addition to the Sh1 million contributed by Raila Odinga,” Nyong’o said.

“The bank details and account number will be published in tomorrow's papers for anyone who wishes to contribute to the fundraising effort.”

Outside the JOOTRH morgue, grief was palpable as tears flowed freely and wails pierced the air as families gathered to collect the bodies of 22 of the victims.

The deceased were placed into waiting hearses after mourners filed by for a final farewell.

Many of the victims were relatives, some from the same households, and friends from Nyakach who were returning home from a funeral in Nyahera when the tragedy occurred.

Reports indicate that the bus driver lost control while negotiating a bend, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and land in a ditch.

At least 21 people were confirmed dead at the scene, while five others later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. Twenty-six others survived the crash.

A joint funeral service is scheduled for Saturday at Naki Primary School for the collected bodies, which will then be laid to rest.

Families are expected to hold night vigils in their respective homes prior to the service.

The accident has been described as the worst in the region in recent years.

It is among several crashes witnessed in the past week, which have claimed nearly 50 lives nationwide.

In response to the spike in road accidents, the government has announced measures, including the introduction of telematics device trackers to monitor vehicle and driver behaviour, aiming to prevent crashes caused by fatigue and defective vehicles.