A nine-year-old boy from Murang’a County is being hailed as a hero after his bravery saved nine lives in a tragic matatu accident at the Kiama River. The incident occurred when a vehicle carrying passengers attempted to cross a flooded bridge along the Kia-Mariba road but was swept away by strong currents following heavy rainfall.
The young boy, identified as Boniface Njoroge, a Grade Three pupil at Getatunguru Primary School, was travelling with his parents when the matatu lost control and plunged into the swollen river. As the vehicle began to sink, Boniface managed to wriggle free and escape through a window. Acting swiftly, he ran to a nearby shopping centre, shouting for help from boda boda riders and traders. His cries drew villagers who rushed to the scene and began rescuing trapped passengers using ropes and wooden planks.
Boniface’s mother, Alice Wangechi, who was among the survivors, recalled the terrifying moment the matatu was submerged. She initially feared her son had drowned, unaware that his quick action would be the reason she and others survived. While she and several passengers managed to be pulled to safety, Boniface’s father tragically lost his life in the crash.
Another survivor, Peter Gishuru, praised the young boy’s courage, saying that his quick thinking made all the difference. Boniface climbed to higher ground and alerted boda boda riders, directing them to where his parents and other passengers were struggling in the water. The timely rescue efforts helped prevent further loss of life.
Authorities confirmed that six people, all from the same extended family in Ndia village, Kariara Ward, Gatanga Constituency, lost their lives in the tragedy. They were returning home from a dowry ceremony in the Nazareth area of Kiambu County when the accident occurred at Wacengu Bridge on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Six other passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to Kirwara Hospital and Murang’a Level 5 Hospital for treatment.
The accident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of attempting to cross flooded rivers during heavy rains. However, amid the heartbreak, the community has found a symbol of hope and bravery in young Boniface, whose courage and presence of mind saved nine people from certain death.
