Kenya has recorded a sharp increase in road crash fatalities, with over 21,000 victims reported this year. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) revealed the figures on Sunday, November 16, to mark the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
According to NTSA, a total of 21,042 road crash victims were recorded between January 1 and November 13, 2025. Among these, 411 pillion passengers lost their lives, reflecting a 15% increase from previous statistics. Slight injuries from accidents also rose by 11.4%, while serious injuries saw a marginal decline of 2.8%, totaling 9,888 cases.
Pedestrians continue to be the most vulnerable road users, with 1,580 deaths reported so far this year. Other road user fatalities include 376 drivers, 681 passengers, 62 pedal cyclists, and 1,085 motorcyclists. Notably, motorcyclist deaths surged sharply in October 2025, rising by 9.15% compared to 2024, when 994 motorcyclists died.
Nairobi County remains the most affected, reporting 447 fatalities, followed by Kiambu (387) and Nakuru (318). Other high-risk counties include Machakos (173), Murang’a (148), and Kisumu (137).
NTSA Acting Director Angela Wanjira emphasized the human cost behind the numbers, noting that “each loss on our roads represents more than a statistic. Families and communities bear the trauma, grief, and financial hardships that come with every death or serious injury.”
To tackle the rising fatalities ahead of the festive season, NTSA has outlined an elaborate multi-agency prevention plan, in partnership with the National Police Service. The strategy is part of the government’s broader goal to reduce road accidents by 50% by 2030.
With road safety remaining a pressing concern, NTSA urges motorists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians to exercise extra caution, especially during high-risk periods, to prevent further loss of life.
