By Raymond Wanjohi
Kenya has lost 4,047 lives to road accidents this year, a figure that has raised serious concerns among stakeholders in the transport sector.
The government has expressed alarm over the rising toll, noting that the number exceeds the threshold set by the United Nations (UN), underscoring the urgent need for measures to curb the alarming trend.
Mr. Paul King’ori, Director of Road and Rail at the Ministry of Roads and Transport, revealed that road fatalities have increased by 9 per cent compared to the same period last year.
He was speaking at Whispers Park in Nyeri Town during the commemoration of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
In addition to the fatalities, Mr King’ori noted that the accidents have led to 9,607 serious injuries and 5,764 minor injuries.
“Our message to Kenyans as we approach the festive season is simple: Be vigilant on the roads to help reduce accidents. We must aim for a 50 percent reduction in road fatalities. Drivers need to remember that they are carrying lives, and they must prioritize safety,” said Mr King’ori.
He added: “The current numbers are far too high. We must ensure that we stay within the safety thresholds recommended by the UN, especially as we are now in the second decade of the UN’s Road Safety Action Plan, which aims to reduce accidents and fatalities to levels seen in 2021”.
Meanwhile, Mr Mwaniki Wagichere, Chairman of the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) in Laikipia County, emphasized the sector’s commitment to road safety.
He noted that the matatu industry is working closely with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the National Police Service to prevent accidents.
“We have been conducting several training programs for our drivers in collaboration with NTSA and the police to ensure adherence to road safety regulations,” said Wagichere, who also serves on the MOA’s national governing council.
The NTSA has been intensifying efforts to enforce stricter traffic laws, promote road safety, and educate the public on the dangers of reckless driving.
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