President Samia Suluhu Hassan has expressed her deepest condolences to the families of three students from Mringa Secondary School who tragically lost their lives in a road accident in Arusha. The accident occurred on October 30, 2026, when a vehicle struck the students, who were standing by the roadside waiting for transport. The victims were identified as Jessica Ngotiek, Catherine Mosha, and Bianca Mgongo.
The Arumeru District Commissioner, Ms Neema Lugangira, conveyed the President's message during a special farewell service held on November 2, 2026, before the students were buried in their respective homes in Kilimanjaro and Mara regions. Ms Lugangira also revealed that she was shocked to find cargo being transferred from the vehicle involved in the accident into another lorry when she arrived at the scene.
Ms Lugangira ordered the goods detained at Ngaramtoni Police Station until the driver was arrested, emphasizing that vehicle owners should also be held accountable for accidents involving their vehicles. She directed the police to investigate drivers' employment contracts, licences, and professional competence to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The district commissioner also highlighted the difficult circumstances facing Catherine's family, whose father is bedridden. Catherine had previously declined a sponsorship opportunity to study in a better environment, choosing instead to remain at home and care for her father. Ms Lugangira directed the Council Executive Director to ensure the father received medical attention at Mount Meru Hospital and that his wish to see his daughter's coffin was fulfilled.
Arusha Regional Education Officer, Mr Vincent Kayombo, described the deaths as a major blow to teachers, who regarded their students as children entrusted to their academic and parental care. He urged teachers to intensify road safety education and called on authorities to strengthen driver training, vigilance, and enforcement of traffic laws.
The Arusha District Council Chairman, Mr Baraka Ole Mesiaki, and the school's headteacher, Mr Salimu Makaka, also paid tribute to the students, describing them as disciplined, hardworking, and caring. The chairman described the deaths as a devastating loss to the families, community, and nation, given the students' potential.
The police have urged motorists to observe traffic regulations and vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy. The police Gender Desk head, Tausi Mbaramwezi, warned that legal action would be taken against offenders.
Key points
- President Samia Suluhu Hassan sent condolences to the families of the three students killed in the accident.
- The district commissioner ordered the detention of goods from the vehicle involved in the accident and directed investigations into drivers' employment contracts and licences.
- Authorities have urged motorists to observe traffic regulations and vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
