Kenya records 2,933 deaths since January as gov’t moves to curb road accidents

Kenya has reported a sharp increase in road accidents, with 2,933 lives lost since January, according to data released by the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Davis Chirchir.

The data reveals a worrying trend, with 80 accidents recorded in the last four days alone involving public service, private, and commercial vehicles.

In response, CS Chirchir announced that officials from various agencies have been deployed to conduct safety audits on the road segments to identify safety deficiencies and to reconstruct the scenes.

The CS stated that the multi-agency team is expected to complete the exercise within seven days and submit technical recommendations for immediate implementation to help prevent further loss of life.

“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”, he said.

Chirchir also outlined several new measures his ministry is undertaking to curb the rising number of accidents.

The developments come after 26 people died when the bus they were in overturned at the Coptic Roundabout on the Kisumu-Kakamega Road on Friday.

Just hours later, eight more people perished in another crash at Korompoi along the Kitengela-Isinya Road, sparking public outrage and renewed calls for urgent government intervention.

The CS also conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured and currently receiving treatment in various health facilities following recent road traffic crashes across the country.

Ongoing Safety Measures

Chirchir noted that efforts to strengthen road safety legislation are at an advanced stage. These include reforms in the regulation of school transport, commercial vehicle operations, drink-driving laws, vehicle inspection, roadside safety stations, and a comprehensive review of the Traffic Act.

He also disclosed that the government is actively addressing key infrastructure challenges. These include the redesign of the Nithi Bridge and the ongoing dualling of the Rironi–Mau Summit Road, with completion of both projects expected soon.

He added that NTSA will continue to scale up coordination of road safety initiatives, including public education and awareness, to support behaviour and attitude change.

“In support of the Government’s efforts, I urge all transport stakeholders, operators, and road users, including drivers, pedestrians, boda boda and cyclists, to prioritise their safety and strictly adhere to road safety guidelines. Full compliance with stipulated speed limits, vehicle maintenance standards, proper licensing, and traffic regulations is not optional but a collective responsibility that safeguards lives”, he appealed.

Chirchir emphasised that the accidents are preventable.

“This wholistic and collaborative approach will go a long way in reducing fatalities and injuries on our roads. We note that road traffic accidents are not only predictable but also preventable if all road users played their part. Let us all play our part in ensuring Kenya’s roads are safe for everyone”, he advised.