A bus crash near Salama, Kenya, killed 17 pilgrims traveling to a national prayer event. The victims were members of St. Mathias Mulumba Catholic Church in Mikindani. The accident occurred on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway in Makueni County.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa released the names of the deceased. Coadjutor Archbishop Dominic Kimengich confirmed the church continued its efforts to support the families. The victims were en route to the Subukia National Shrine for the National Prayer Day.
President William Ruto expressed condolences to the families. He acknowledged the tragedy and offered his support. A local man narrowly avoided the crash by changing his travel plans. He took a separate bus to Subukia, avoiding the fatal accident.
The crash highlights ongoing challenges with road safety in Kenya. The Nairobi-Mombasa Highway is a major route, frequently used for religious and national events. The incident underscores the need for improved transportation and emergency response systems.
The church and local authorities are working to provide assistance to the affected families. The event, part of the National Prayer Day, was meant to bring communities together. The loss of 17 people has left a deep impact on the local area.
