
A lorry carrying green bananas from Meru to Nairobi plunged into the infamous Nithi River on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, leaving two people dead—further reviving public concern over the bridge’s grim history of accidents.
Another fatal crash on a notorious stretch
According to witnesses, the lorry appeared to have lost control as it descended toward the bridge, before crashing through the barriers and plunging into the river below. The vehicle was reportedly heavily loaded, with initial reports suggesting possible brakes failure.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene and managed to retrieve one body from the wreckage. The second victim still remains trapped inside the submerged lorry as efforts continue to overcome strong river currents and steep terrain.
Tharaka Nithi County Police Commander Zaccheus Ng’eno confirmed the incident, saying investigations are underway to determine the exact cause.
A long history of warnings and neglect
The Nithi Bridge isn’t new to reports of road carnage. The bridge, which connects Meru and Embu along the busy Makutano–Embu–Meru highway, has claimed dozens of lives over recent history. It has long been branded one of the most dangerous spots on Kenyan roads.
In April 2025, Meru Governor Mutuma M’ethingia raised concerns about the bridge’s safety during President William Ruto’s visit to Tharaka Nithi County. The governor emphasized the need to rehabilitate the bridge, describing it as a key transport corridor vital for trade across eastern Kenya and into neighboring countries.
Government pledges yet to materialize
Following public outcry, President Ruto promised that the bridge would be reconstructed by 2027. He announced an initial Ksh5 million allocation for preparatory works, followed by a larger Ksh7 billion plan unveiled in August 2025.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) later opened the tendering process, inviting bids through the e-GP platform. However, months later, several residents have registered their frustrations, claiming that the progress has been painfully slow, with each new tragedy highlighting the cost of inaction.
A deadly reminder
Data from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) shows that the Nithi Bridge has claimed over 50 lives since 2010. Built in 1985, it continues to serve as both a vital link and a deadly trap for motorists.
This week’s accident adds to a long list of tragedies that many believe could not have happened had prompt action been effected. As rescue efforts continue, the Nithi Bridge once again stands as a stark reminder of Kenya’s unfinished business in road safety.