A devastating head-on collision between a fuel tanker and a trailer near Mtito Andei has left the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway in flames. Details inside.
In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves across the region, a fuel tanker and a 40ft container carrier collided head-on near Mtito Andei, bursting into flames and causing chaos along the busy Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. The accident occurred just 6.5 kilometers from Mtito Andei, a critical transit point on one of Kenya’s busiest roads.
According to reports, two individual were injured and rashed to nearby hospital.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday morning, involved the drivers of a tanker and a trailer that collided head-on before both vehicles burst into flames.
“The accident involved a tanker carrying edible oil and a trailer. Upon reaching Kanga, they collided head-on before catching fire,” an eyewitness told The Star by phone.
A local administrator confirmed that both drivers sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital in Mtito Andei, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The accident caused a significant traffic snarl-up along the busy highway, with police officers working tirelessly to clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow. Several motorists were caught in the congestion, which stretched for several kilometres.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing massive flames and thick black smoke billowing into the sky as the two vehicles, both carrying highly flammable cargo, erupted into a fiery inferno. The cause of the collision is still under investigation, but early reports suggest speeding and poor visibility may have played a role.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but the intensity of the fire made it difficult to approach the wreckage. Authorities have warned motorists to avoid the area as cleanup and rescue operations continue. The Nairobi-Mombasa Highway is a vital transport route, and the accident has caused significant traffic disruptions, with long queues forming on both sides of the road.
As investigations unfold, questions about road safety and enforcement of traffic regulations are once again at the forefront.
