Kenya has recorded 2,933 deaths from road accidents since January, according to data released by Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir. The alarming figures highlight a growing crisis, with 80 accidents reported in just the last four days involving public service, private, and commercial vehicles.
The tragic toll follows two major crashes last week: one at the Coptic Roundabout on the Kisumu-Kakamega Road that claimed 26 lives, and another at Korompoi along the Kitengela-Isinya Road, where eight more people died. These incidents have sparked public outrage and intensified calls for urgent government intervention.
In response, Chirchir announced the deployment of a multi-agency team to conduct safety audits on high-risk road segments. The team will identify safety deficiencies, reconstruct accident scenes, and submit technical recommendations within seven days for immediate implementation.
“As a Ministry, we will continue working with all stakeholders to implement both long and medium-term measures provided in Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan 2024–2028 within the available resources,” Chirchir stated.
Ongoing Reforms and Infrastructure Improvements
The CS outlined several initiatives to curb the rising fatalities, including reforms in school transport regulation, commercial vehicle operations, drink-driving laws, vehicle inspection, roadside safety stations, and a comprehensive review of the Traffic Act.
On infrastructure, Chirchir highlighted the redesign of the Nithi Bridge and the ongoing dualling of the Rironi–Mau Summit Road, both expected to be completed soon. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) will also intensify public education and awareness campaigns to promote safe road use.
He urged drivers, pedestrians, boda boda riders, and cyclists to strictly adhere to speed limits, vehicle maintenance standards, licensing rules, and traffic regulations.
“Road traffic accidents are not only predictable but also preventable if all road users play their part. Let us all ensure Kenya’s roads are safe for everyone,” he appealed.
The government’s multi-pronged approach combining legislative reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and behavioural change campaigns aims to reverse the deadly trend and make Kenyan roads safer for all.
