The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has reported a concerning rise in road accident fatalities, with approximately 1,214 lives lost in the last three months. NTSA’s Deputy Director of Safety, Audit, and Inspection, Eng Christine Ogut, expressed alarm over this trend, noting a five percent increase compared to the same period last year.
Ogut revealed that pedestrian fatalities topped the list, followed by motorbike riders, passengers, and drivers. In 2023, nearly 3,609 people lost their lives in road accidents, while in 2022, the toll stood at 4,690. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures.
The NTSA has launched comprehensive operations to raise awareness about road safety, particularly on the Kaplong-Bomet-Mulot-Narok roads. Ogut emphasized that the authority has intensified engagement with drivers and matatu Saccos through sensitization sessions on road safety protocols.
One significant contributing factor to accidents, according to Ogut, is the lack of speed limiters in vehicles, especially public service vehicles. She noted that speed accounts for 70 percent of accidents on Kenyan roads.
The NTSA is committed to auditing different road sections, providing reports, and advising road agencies on measures to curb accidents in specific regions. Ogut highlighted ongoing efforts to assess road conditions and make recommendations to enhance safety.
Meanwhile, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen underscored the gravity of the situation, stating that the country loses an average of 3,500 lives to road accidents annually. Murkomen stressed the need for concerted efforts from all Kenyans to address the menace, urging road users to act responsibly.
He acknowledged the longstanding challenge of inadequate resources facing the NTSA and traffic officers, hindering their ability to enforce regulations effectively. Murkomen revealed plans for technological installations and instant fining to deter reckless behavior on the roads.
Efforts are underway to introduce regulations for real-time mobile cameras in all motor vehicles, enhancing accountability and aiding accident prevention measures. These initiatives, coupled with collaborative efforts and responsible road usage, are essential in curbing the rising tide of road accidents in Kenya.
