KISUMU: The government has released Sh4.4 million to cater for the burial of 26 people who perished in last week’s Kisumu–Kakamega Highway crash, Kisumu County Commissioner Flora Mwaora has confirmed.

Speaking on Friday, Mwaora said the funds — channelled through Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo — will cover all expenses for a joint mass burial ceremony set for Saturday at Naki Primary School.

“The government committed to take care of this burial, and I can confirm we have received Sh4.4 million to cater for all arrangements,” she said, urging residents to maintain peace during the mourning period.

The victims lost their lives in a devastating accident at the Coptic roundabout after a vehicle lost control.

Earlier, Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o donated another one million on top of another million that had been donated by the ODM leader Raila Odinga.

“Following the tragic accident at the Coptic roundabout on the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway, which claimed the lives of 26 people, we held a moment of silence today,” posted the Kisumu chief on his official Facebook page.

The post further stated, “I have donated Ksh 1 million, which is in addition to the Ksh 1 million donated by Rt. Hon Raila Odinga. The bank details and account number will be published in tomorrow’s papers for anyone who wishes to contribute to the fundraising effort.”