On Friday, the six children who tragically lost their lives on September 13 after being struck by a Probox car while walking to school were laid to rest at their homes in Ikutha, Kitui South.
The funeral service, held at Kyoani chief’s camp, drew a large crowd of mourners, reflecting the profound grief and sympathy surrounding the incident.
Fred Kiiru, representing Education CS Julius Ogamba, attended the service, which took place near the site where the accident occurred on the Kitui-Kibwezi road, resulting in the immediate deaths of the children.
Three of the victims were from Kyoani Primary School, and three were from Kyoani Secondary School. The children were identified as Alice Mwikali (born 2011, Grade 6), Elijah Kamene (born 2015, Grade 3), Jacinta Njeru (born 2009, Form 1), Bridgit Vaati (born 2010, Form 1), Susan Mueni (born 2009, Form 3), and Naomi Mulatya (born 2015).
Kitui Governor Julius Malombe attributed the tragedy to reckless driving, highlighting the need for greater awareness among motorists. He promised support to the grieving families, including psychosocial counseling, and advocated for the installation of speed bumps along the road.
Fr. Nicholas Maanzo of Ikutha parish blessed the six caskets during the service, emphasizing the community’s sorrow.
In a condolence message read by Kiiru, Education CS Julius Ogamba expressed that the loss has profoundly affected the Kyoani community.
Senator Enoch Wambua pointed out that the newly paved Kitui-Kibwezi road has 11 hazardous blackspots that should be identified and marked to prevent future accidents.
Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto also expressed concern over the rising number of accidents and fatalities on the road.
