Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has announced the return of alcohol breathalyzer checkpoints on major roads across Kenya starting this week, in a renewed crackdown on drunk driving.
Speaking on Sunday, April 6, CS Chirchir said the move is aimed at addressing the alarming increase in road accidents, many of which have been linked to drunk driving.
“Any driver found under the influence of alcohol beyond the legal limit will be fined up to Ksh100,000 or face a prison term not exceeding two years—or both,” Chirchir stated.
The initiative follows amendments passed by the National Assembly, which reinstated the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) authority to enforce drink-driving regulations. These changes come under the Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules, 2025, made possible by amending Section 4 of the Traffic Act, CAP 403.
Key penalties for offenders include:
- Up to Ksh100,000 in fines
- Jail term not exceeding two years
- Automatic one-year disqualification from obtaining or holding a driving license for anyone convicted.
Under the revised law, NTSA and the police will jointly mount random checkpoints, particularly on major highways and urban roads, to monitor and apprehend drunk drivers using breathalyzer devices (commonly referred to as “alcoblows”
Breathalyzer enforcement was previously halted by the courts, citing legal and procedural issues. However, with the legislative gaps now addressed, the government says it is ready to implement the rules again—this time more robustly.
“This is not about punishment; it’s about saving lives,” added CS Chirchir, urging motorists to exercise personal responsibility and avoid drinking before driving.
The announcement comes in the wake of a deadly weekend on Kenyan roads, including a tragic multi-vehicle crash in Bomet County that claimed at least 13 lives.
