Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano on Tuesday, June 10 issued a statement following the tragic road accident involving tourists along Nakuru-Ol-Jororok Road in Nyandarua County.

The accident occurred on Monday, June 9, when a minibus carrying tourists from Maasai Mara to Nyahururu fell into a ditch when the driver was negotiating a corner near Uhuru Comprehensive School in the Gichaka area.

In her statement, Rebecca expressed her sadness and urged drivers to be keen, especially along unfamiliar roads.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident involving tourists, which occurred last evening along Dundori-Oljororok Road. My heartfelt condolences to the affected families during this difficult time. We wish the injured quick and full recovery as I urge our drivers to be extra careful, especially along unfamiliar roads. Our sincere sympathies,” she wrote on X.

Reports indicate that the minibus’ brakes failed while descending a hill towards  Ol Jororok area, therefore falling into the ditch.

The bus then rolled several times before falling into a potato farm with the roof ripped off.

Nyandarua County Police Commander Stella Cherono confirmed that 5 passengers died on the spot and others were rescued and rushed to Nyahururu County and Referral Hospital, and St. Benedict Hospital in Nyahururu.

The tourists — 28 tourists, 3 local guides and 1 driver — are reported to have been travelling to Panari Resort, Nyahururu when the tour bus they were using plunged into the ditch.

So far, 25 tourists have been accounted for inclusive of the 5 fatalities.

Search is ongoing for the other remaining 3.