The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has urged the government to construct new highways and dedicated lanes for long-distance trucks to help reduce road accidents, congestion, and infrastructure damage.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 5, the association noted that such routes would be crucial in improving road safety and easing traffic flow across major highways. MAK argued that long-haul trailers, which handle cross-border cargo and pay substantial tolls and taxes, currently share the same roads with local traffic, resulting in increased congestion and accidents.
“Goods-in-transit trailers primarily handle cross-border haulage and pay substantial tolls and taxes to the government. Yet, these heavy vehicles share the same roads with local traffic, contributing to congestion, faster road deterioration, and an alarming rise in fatal crashes,” the association stated.
MAK proposed that the government gradually develop these new routes “a kilometre at a time,” using a portion of the levies collected from the trucking sector. The association further challenged authorities to disclose how much revenue is generated monthly from truck-related tolls and use part of those funds for highway expansion and maintenance.
The latest call comes barely a month after MAK appealed to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to revoke the licences of truck drivers and fleet managers who violate safety regulations. MAK Chairperson Peter Murima emphasized that some road accidents are caused by neglected vehicle maintenance and driver fatigue.
Murima also urged NTSA to enforce stricter measures by requiring transport companies to establish internal codes of conduct. “If a driver commits an offence contrary to the company’s code and no action is taken, NTSA should act against the entire company,” he said.
According to MAK, dedicated truck lanes and stricter oversight would not only protect motorists but also enhance the efficiency of Kenya’s transport network.
