Kenya is grappling with alarming road safety issues as fatalities spike during the festive season, prompting urgent calls for vigilance and intervention from both the public and authorities. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) recently implicated owners of Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) following their reckless behavior captured on video, which has gone viral, stirring public outrage.
The incident, which took place on Thika Road, involved two PSVs identified by their registration numbers — KBH 889H and KCF 996R. The footage showed harrowing scenes: passengers hanging out of the windows, the vehicles swerving dangerously, and overtaking other cars at breakneck speeds. Such reckless behavior is not just illegal; it's indicative of broader traffic culture issues.
Elizabeth Vivi, the Central Region Traffic Police boss, confirmed the summons for the vehicle owners to report to Makuyu Police Station. “We have summoned the owners. Failure to appear before the police to write a statement will lead to drastic action by NPS and NTSA,” she warned, indicating the seriousness with which authorities are treating this case.
With the festive season upon us, the government has ramped up its efforts to improve road safety, particularly as traffic volumes typically surge. NTSA monitoring has intensified across major highways, and the Police have actively arrested numerous motorists defying traffic regulations over the weekend.
“This is unacceptable. The owners of the PSVs have been summoned. We will take action,” was NTSA's firm stance on the matter as articulated via their social media channels. This hauntingly echoes the rising concern among Kenyans for accountability and safety on the roads during this period.
The situation on the roads mirrors grim statistics recently released by the NTSA, which indicate increasing casualties. By November 2024, 21,620 road crash cases were reported, reflecting a sharp rise from 20,191 cases recorded during the same period the previous year. The toll of fatalities rose to 4,282 this year, compared to 3,901 last year, marking deeply concerning trends for road safety across the region.
The Ministry of Interior has responded preemptively to mounting safety concerns by identifying multiple road blackspots notorious for high accident rates. Blackspots are locations with repeated incidents leading to fatalities or severe injuries, and heightened surveillance is now advised for these areas. Notable blackspots within Nairobi include the Kasarani-GSU stretch and Waiyaki Way near the Kangemi Flyover. This initiative aims to curb accidents effectively, especially as festivities trigger increased travel.
The broader scope of road safety goes beyond just dangerous driving behaviors. Pedestrians and motorcyclists emerge as especially vulnerable groups. The NTSA report indicates pedestrians accounted for 3,917 fatalities this year, up from 3,427 last year. Fatalities among motorcyclists saw a similar alarming rise, reaching 4,042 this year from 3,714 the previous year. A comprehensive view shows all classes of road users facing increased risks.
Additional blackspots identified across various regions include the Thika-Garissa Road and Mombasa Road between Airtel Headquarters and Cabanas. The recognition spans all Kenyan regions, calling for collaborative effort and enhanced compliance with road safety regulations. The coastal region and Central Kenya also host sections flagged for follow-up intervention, with specific areas highlighted for urgent attention.
Road users are urged to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic regulations to mitigate the risk of fatalities and injuries—especially pertinent as the holiday season encourages increased travel and gatherings. The government has stressed the need for compliance, signaling the responsibility shared by every individual on the road. Law enforcement remains on high alert to prosecute violators effectively, backed by the stringent traffic monitoring operations.
The rise in road incidents has drawn attention to inherent systemic failures within traffic management and public education on road safety. Concerns about how effectively these issues can be addressed linger, with citizens advocating for real change. The NTSA's efforts and the Ministry's identification of hazardous road sections reflect part of the solution, but more sustained public engagement and legislative support will be necessary.
Kenya stands at a crossroads with its road safety culture as it heads toward the new year. The current festive period poses not just immediate dangers, but also prospects for reinforcing community and regulatory commitment to safer road practices. It's imperative for drivers, passengers, and vulnerable road users to unite under the call for caution and responsibility to preserve lives during this potentially perilous season.
Only through collective vigilance can these sorrowful statistics be turned around. Time is of the essence as the country faces one of its most dangerous periods on the roads. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal, and everyone’s active participation is required to create safer travel conditions.
