Two Teachers, One Learner Die in Separate Accidents

By Our Correspondent

Two teachers and a learner died today in separate road accidents in Nairobi and Nyeri counties, leaving the education sector in mourning.

A public service vehicle rammed into teachers participating in union elections at City Primary School in Nairobi’s Ngara area, killing two and injuring 26 others.

One teacher died on the spot while another succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at a city hospital, according to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba.

The incident occurred as teachers gathered to vote in Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) elections being conducted across various branches nationwide.

In Nyeri County, a van carrying 25 learners from Mahehe Friends Academy and Aberdare Academy lost control, resulting in one student’s death.

The learner died while receiving treatment at hospital after sustaining injuries when the vehicle overturned, with several others also rushed for medical attention.

“We have received heart-breaking news of two accidents that claimed the lives of two teachers and a learner earlier today,” Ogamba said.

The Cabinet Secretary said his ministry is coordinating with Interior, Roads and Transport, and Health ministries to respond to the tragedies.

The Teachers Service Commission and both county governments are also involved in managing the aftermath of the incidents that have shocked educators nationwide.

“On my behalf and that of the Ministry of Education, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and relatives,” Ogamba said.

He prayed for strength and fortitude for bereaved families during this difficult time and wished the injured a quick and full recovery.

The accidents occurred as KUPPET conducts branch elections ahead of the 2026 national polls, with the union implementing a new constitution increasing positions.

The new rules expand branch executive committee members from 10 to 15 positions, with special provisions for gender balance and youth representation in leadership.

Saturday’s tragedies have reignited concerns about road safety in Kenya, particularly involving school transport and public service vehicles in urban and rural areas.

“We call upon drivers and other road users to exercise due care and adhere to traffic rules and protocols,” Ogamba said.

Recent police statistics show more than 290 people were killed in road accidents in the first 21 days of January 2026 alone.

This represents an increase of 18 fatalities compared to 276 deaths recorded during the same period in 2025, highlighting a worsening crisis.

The accidents involving teachers have particularly shaken the teaching fraternity, occurring as educators exercised their democratic rights through union elections at various centers.

KUPPET officials have not commented on whether the Nairobi branch elections will be postponed following the incident that claimed two members’ lives.

Investigations into both accidents are ongoing, with authorities expected to establish exact causes and determine if traffic violations or vehicle defects contributed.

The Ministry of Education has assured families of government support as investigations continue and medical treatment for the injured proceeds at various facilities.