Gatanga: A family in Gatanga, Murang'a County, is receiving support from local leaders after losing five members in a tragic road accident. The leaders have contributed Sh2.5 million to cover the burial expenses.
According to Kenya News Agency, the effort was led by Murang'a Woman Representative Betty Maina, Nominated MP Sabina Chege, and Kangema MP Peter Kihungi. The accident occurred when a matatu carrying the family from a dowry ceremony in Kiambu County plunged into River Kiama, killing six people instantly. The crash happened less than two kilometers from their destination, and several passengers are still hospitalized at Murang'a Level 5 Hospital.
David Kamau Gachunga, the chairman of the burial committee, confirmed that the family's Sh2.5 million burial budget has been fully covered through the contributions. He highlighted the challenges of burying five family members simultaneously and expressed gratitude for the assistance.
The victims include Peter Mwangi Macharia and his wife, who left behind six children, Elijah Kamau, who left a wife battling cancer and six children, Karanja, who left a wife and six children, and Kihara, who left behind a wife and three children. Another victim, a woman given a lift, also died, and her family received Sh330,000 for burial expenses, while hospitalized victims received Sh220,000 for treatment.
The leaders also committed to supporting the education of the orphaned children. University and college students will receive bursaries from the woman representative's office to ensure their studies continue.
During a visit to the family's home in Ndia Village, Kariara Ward, Gatanga, Betty Maina emphasized the importance of giving the deceased a dignified send-off. She also called on the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to address safety issues on the bridge where the accident happened.
Maina urged the burial committee to manage the funds wisely, noting the ongoing responsibilities of educating the children and supporting the widowed families. She expressed gratitude to national leaders, including President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who contributed to the fund.
The burial is scheduled for Saturday, November 1, at Gatunguru Primary School grounds, with interment at the family land in Ndia Village.