17 Mombasa pilgrims die in Salama road accident on way to National Prayer Day

By Jambo24 Reporter, Nairobi | October 3, 2026

Seventeen pilgrims from St. Mathias Mulumba Parish, Mikindani, in Mombasa have died in a road accident at Salama, Kilome, in Makueni County, while travelling to the Subukia National Marian Shrine for the National Prayer Day.

The Archdiocese of Mombasa confirmed the deaths in a condolence message issued by the Archbishop’s Office on Saturday.

The pilgrims were travelling from Mombasa to Subukia, where Catholic faithful from across Kenya were expected to gather for the annual National Prayer Day.

Accident reported along Nairobi–Mombasa Highway

The accident occurred at around 1am on Saturday, October 3, along the Nairobi–Mombasa Highway at Salama.

Preliminary reports indicate that the crash involved a 14-seater matatu carrying the pilgrims and two trailer lorries.

Initial accounts indicated that one of the lorries lost control after its brakes reportedly failed before colliding with several vehicles, including the matatu.

Authorities are expected to provide further details as investigations into the circumstances of the crash continue.

Archdiocese mourns pilgrims

In its message addressed to priests, religious men and women, and the lay faithful, the Archdiocese of Mombasa said it was deeply saddened by the deaths.

The Archdiocese called on the faithful to pray for the repose of the souls of those who died, as well as for their families, St. Mathias Mulumba Parish and the wider Archdiocese.

It also urged the Catholic community to seek solace and consolation in the Lord during the period of mourning.

“May their souls rest in peace. Amen,” the condolence message stated.

National Prayer Day

The National Prayer Day is held annually at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru County.

The event is organised by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and is traditionally held on the first Saturday of October, bringing together Catholic faithful from different parts of the country.

This year’s gathering has been overshadowed by the deaths of the pilgrims travelling from Mombasa to attend the religious event.