The long-awaited tarmacking of the Kimbimbi-Kanjinji road in Mwea East, Kirinyaga County, has been marred by a fatal accident. A 22-year-old man, Eric Bundi, died after his motorcycle collided with a saloon car at Karoti. Bundi was rushed to Kimbimbi Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The accident has raised concerns over road safety as construction works continue along the road.
According to eyewitnesses, Bundi was travelling in the same direction as a vehicle belonging to Julius Maina when the accident occurred. Maina stated that he was shocked when he noticed the motorcycle near his vehicle and rushed the victim to the hospital. The incident has sparked fears among residents that the improved road has increased the risk of accidents due to speeding motorists and motorcycle riders.
Residents have expressed concerns over the increasing number of accidents along the road. Felister Wambui stated that motorcycle operators and drivers are speeding, causing accidents. Another accident on Sunday left four members of one family injured after their vehicle was hit by another vehicle. Irungu Mwangi, Bundi's uncle, said a man and his wife were seriously injured and are fighting for their lives at Kerugoya and Kenyatta hospitals.
The tarmacking of the Kimbimbi-Kanjinji road, which runs from Kutus through Kimbimbi and Togonye to Piai, has brought excitement to Kimbimbi and surrounding communities. Residents have waited for years for the project to become a reality. At Kimbimbi shopping centre, residents have been taking photographs of the newly tarmacked sections, with some saying they never imagined they would see the road paved.
Residents are welcoming the improved infrastructure, saying it will boost development and increase the value of property in the area. James Kamau stated that the construction of eight bridges in Mwea, including the one at Karira, is a welcome development. Susan Murugi said the improved road would be a major boost for residents of Karoti, Gatitika, and neighbouring areas who rely on Kimbimbi Sub-County Hospital and the shopping centre.
Mwea Member of Parliament Mary Maingi has urged motorists, motorcycle riders, and other road users to exercise caution as the tarmacking works continue. Maingi expressed regret over Bundi's death and called for calm. The driver of the vehicle involved in the fatal accident reported the matter at Wang'uru Police Station and recorded a statement. The vehicle is being held at the station as investigations continue.
Residents are now calling on the contractor to install adequate warning signs and other safety measures along the road to prevent further accidents. They say speed bumps should also be installed, with the measures expected to be put in place once construction of the road is complete. Bundi's body was taken to Kibugi Funeral Home in Kutus.
Key points
- A 22-year-old man died in a road accident along the Kimbimbi-Kanjinji road in Kenya's Kirinyaga County as tarmacking works continue.
- The accident has raised concerns over road safety as construction works continue along the road.
- Residents are calling for the installation of adequate warning signs and safety measures to prevent further accidents.
