A multi-vehicle crash near Salama, Kenya, killed at least 17 people, mostly Catholic pilgrims, on October 3, 2026. The incident occurred on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, 90 kilometers southeast of Nairobi, as the victims travelled from Mikindani Parish to the Subukia National Shrine. Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir announced that Mombasa County will cover funeral costs and assist families with transporting the bodies for identification and post-mortem procedures.
The crash has raised concerns about Kenya’s road safety system. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has deployed investigators to determine the cause of the accident. The victims were on a pilgrimage, and one man narrowly avoided the crash by changing his travel plans and taking a separate bus. The incident has intensified calls for improved road safety measures in the region.
This is the second major road accident in the area this year, highlighting ongoing challenges in infrastructure and enforcement. Local officials have acknowledged the need for stricter regulations and better maintenance of the highway. The families of the victims are awaiting further details on the cause of the crash and the full list of casualties.
