Several passengers suffered injuries after a matatu overturned along Haile Selassie Avenue in Nairobi on Friday morning, January 30.
Early reports show that the driver lost control after the matatu’s brakes failed. The driver was reportedly trying to avoid hitting another vehicle at the time.
The matatu was moving at high speed when the incident happened. It hit the pavement and overturned, causing panic among passengers and nearby pedestrians.
People near the scene rushed to help immediately. Bystanders assisted injured passengers and helped others get out of the overturned vehicle.
By the time of reporting, authorities had not released an official statement. Emergency responders had also not arrived at the scene.
The accident caused temporary traffic disruption along the busy road. Many people gathered at the scene as they attempted to rescue passengers trapped inside the matatu.
Haile Selassie Avenue was busy at the time of the accident. Hundreds of private vehicles and public service vehicles were using the route to enter and exit Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Although the road has undergone repairs in recent years, motorists say its surface has worsened. Some sections of the road are uneven and rough compared to other roads around the CBD.
Drivers have warned that the road condition poses serious risks. Vehicles can lose balance or traction, especially when traveling at high speeds.
Haile Selassie Avenue has recorded several accidents in the past. In March 2024, multiple matatus overturned at different points along the same road.
Those incidents left several commuters injured. The accidents raised concerns about safety along the busy stretch.
Another accident occurred in January 2025 near the Haile Selassie roundabout. That incident again drew attention to the dangers faced by motorists and passengers on the route.
One of the most serious accidents on the avenue happened in September 2018. A chain collision involving several vehicles, including a school van, killed two people and injured at least 19 others.
Most accidents along the road occur during morning peak hours. Heavy traffic, congestion, and pressure to beat traffic contribute to risky driving.
Common causes of accidents on the avenue include speeding and brake failure. Loss of vehicle control is also frequent, especially near roundabouts and intersections.
Motorists and commuters continue to raise safety concerns. Many are calling for improved road conditions and stricter enforcement of traffic rules.
Until safety measures improve, Haile Selassie Avenue remains a high-risk route. Drivers and passengers are urged to exercise caution, especially during busy hours.
