A tragic road accident occurred at Salama Downtown along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, resulting in more than five deaths in a head-on collision between a Naekana public service vehicle and a lorry. Two students from Emali Township were among the victims traveling home for the half-term break. Witnesses attributed the crash to poor visibility and a slippery road surface from ongoing rains.
The accident took place on Saturday afternoon, February 21, 2026, along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway. The public service vehicle was left on its side after the severe collision, with images showing extensive damage to both vehicles. Police managed rescue operations but faced challenges due to the lack of readily available emergency ambulances.
Local residents assisted in transporting the deceased and seriously injured to hospitals. Medical personnel at Sultan Hamud Hospital reported that several passengers sustained injuries and are receiving treatment. One survivor, a female student from Ukia Girls High School, is in critical condition.
Residents have criticized the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) for delaying action on demands to redesign and widen the road section, which they say has claimed several lives before. They argue that the high traffic volume on the Nairobi-Mombasa corridor exposes motorists and passengers to significant risks without urgent improvements. Calls have been made for immediate interventions, including redesigning sharp corners, widening the carriageway, and enhancing road infrastructure.
The incident caused a major traffic snarl-up, with police deployed to manage congestion and restore normal flow.