Written by: Mohammed Omran
At least 28 people were killed in accident Tragic: A bus crashed in Ethiopia’s Amhara region after plunging into a ravine while traveling from Dessie to the capital Addis Ababa, in yet another incident highlighting the recurring deadly road accidents in the country.
Tragic accident during a flight from Dessie to Addis Ababa
Regional media reported that at least 28 people were killed in a tragic bus crash in Ethiopia, according to the regional state-run Amhara Media Foundation, citing police.
The accident occurred when a bus traveling from Dessie to the capital Addis Ababa plunged into a deep ravine in the Amhara region, resulting in a large number of casualties.
Police confirmed, according to the regional broadcaster, that so far, 28 people have lost their lives, while others have sustained injuries ranging from minor to serious, while the final toll is not yet clear.
Fatal road accidents are common in Ethiopia, due to poor driving standards and poor vehicle maintenance in some areas, according to local reports.
In a previous incident in 2024, at least 71 people were killed in the southern Sidama region after a truck plunged into a river, in a similar incident reflecting the frequency of road accidents in the country.
Kenya's First Lady mourns the death of students at Otomichi Girls' Academy
In a separate context, during a memorial service for the students of Otomishi Girls Academy, Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, paid tribute to the victims with moving words, expressing her deep sorrow at the loss of a number of students whom she described as ”precious young souls.”.
She noted that words cannot alleviate the severity of the tragedy, stressing that she stands with the bereaved families during these difficult times and provides them with moral support.
The list of victims included a number of students, among them Cecilia, Juliet, Imani, Julie, Gertrude, Mercy, Nima, Purity, Jane, Nicole, Salistine, Abigail, Precious, Fortune, Zahra, and Cheryl.
The First Lady concluded her remarks by praying for mercy for the victims and for patience and solace for their families, while Kenyan authorities continue investigations to determine the causes and circumstances of the fire.
Ruto said the girls' departure left deep pain in the hearts of their families and friends, as well as in the conscience of the entire nation.
