Government pledges support for Kenyatta University accident victims

The government has pledged to support the victims of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 11 students from Kenyatta University in Maungu area on March 18, 2024. 

Speaking at the memorial service held at the university on Sunday, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu stated that the Ministry of Education shall continue to collaborate with the school and the injured victims in hospitals.

“To those who are in the hospital we will be able to assist each other in all ways possible and we ask them to be strong so that they can be able to leave the hospital,” he said.

Machogu expressed his condolences to the friends and families of the deceased students of the tragic accident. He also extended his sympathies to the Kenyatta University fraternity.

He thanked the Taita Taveta doctors who attended to the injured students.

“The Voi–Taita Taveta doctors were able to respond in record speed and tried as much as possible to save human life,” he said.

Also present at the service was First Lady Rachel Ruto, who conveyed a condolence message from President William Ruto along with money to assist the victims’ families.

She thanked the Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor and university leadership, the Red Cross team, first responders, and medical teams from Taita Taveta that attended to students when they were in need.

She commented that these students’ lives were cut short at the prime of their lives.

 “School trips are meant to be days of joy, learning, and bonding. As much as that should be the case, today, we find ourselves grappling with the reality of a journey cut shot and futures left unfulfilled,” she stated.

The Kenyatta University VC Prof. Paul Wainaina urged everyone to be supportive to the survivors of the accident, stating that they needed help to navigate this difficult time.

“We still have 15 comrades who are recuperating in the hospitals. We also have those who survived and are here with us. All need help. they need help to navigate so we are asking everybody to try and console them as they navigate difficult times,” Wainaina said. 

He also said those who are willing to support the university during this difficult time, to do so through the provided channels.

The First Lady pleaded with motorists to exercise caution on the roads at all costs.

Machogu appealed to drivers and Kenyans in general to be cautious on the roads, referring to the Kapsabet High School accident that left two deceased and others injured.