A multi-vehicle crash near Salama, Kenya, killed at least 17 people, mostly Catholic pilgrims, on October 3, 2026. The accident occurred on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, 90 kilometers southeast of Nairobi. The victims were en route to the Subukia National Shrine from Mikindani Parish in Mombasa.
The Mombasa County Governor, Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, confirmed that the county will cover funeral costs for the deceased and assist families in transporting the bodies for identification and post-mortem procedures. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has sent investigators to the scene to determine the cause of the crash.
The incident has raised concerns about road safety in Kenya. Reports indicate that the crash occurred on a stretch of road known for poor conditions and frequent accidents. A local resident escaped the crash after changing his travel plans, opting for a separate bus to Subukia.
This is the second major road accident in the area this year, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining safe infrastructure. Authorities are under pressure to improve road conditions and enforce stricter safety measures to prevent future tragedies. The investigation into this crash is ongoing.
