UPDATE: Londiani tragedy: 52 confirmed dead

At least 52 people have been confirmed dead and 32 others hospitalised in Kericho County following the tragic multiple crash that occurred at Londiani junction on Friday evening.

The 6.30pm accident occurred after a truck lost control, running over pedestrians, business people and matatus which were parked by the roadside. 

The truck rammed into four matatus, two lorries, a personal vehicle and bus.

The truck was heading to Kericho before it lost control and veered off the road, ramming into tens of hawkers who were busy along the Nakuru-Kericho highway.

Roads CS Kipchumba Murkomen visited the site on Saturday morning, accompanied by other officials.

He said rescue efforts were underway involving officers from various agencies of national and county governments, elected leaders, the Redcross and other well wishers.

"The rescue efforts will be followed by investigations to determine the cause of the crash," he added.

According to eye witnesses, the driver of the truck was trying to avoid hitting a bus that was parked on the road after developing a mechanical hitch before losing control.

According to Londiani OCPD Agnes Kunga, more than 60 people have so far been rushed to different hospitals in Londiani, Kericho and Nakuru where they are currently receiving treatment.

Last evening, rescue efforts were slowed by heavy rains being witnessed at the scene. 

President William Ruto led the nation in mourning the deaths. 

Taking to Twitter on Friday night, he tweeted, "The country mourns with the families who have lost loved ones in a horrific road accident in Londiani, Kericho County. It is distressing that some of the fatalities are young people with a promising future and business people who were on their daily chores." He continued, "We pray for the speedy recovery of all survivors; you are in our thoughts. We urge motorists to be extra cautious on roads, especially now when we are experiencing heavy rainfall."

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said, "The horrific road accident in Londiani, Kericho County, on Friday evening spells unspeakable loss to our nation. It is painful to lose loved ones at any age, especially in a tragic road accident like this." "Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones and quick recovery to the survivors of this tragic road accident. I urge maximum care on our roads at all times by all road users."