The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has embarked on a comprehensive operation aimed at raising awareness on road safety, particularly on the Kaplong-Bomet-Mulot-Narok roads.
The initiative seeks to educate both the public and stakeholders within the transport industry on the importance of adherence to safety regulations to mitigate the alarming rate of accidents on Kenyan roads.
Speaking during the launch, Engineer Christine Ogut, Deputy Director of Safety Audit and Inspections at NTSA, emphasized the urgent need for increased safety measures to address the rising number of accidents.
“The rate at which accidents are occurring is alarming. Our inspections and sensitization efforts are aimed at educating drivers and road users on the importance of responsible road usage,” stated Ogut.
Ogut highlighted that compared to the same period last year, the country has witnessed a surge in accidents, prompting NTSA to launch operations nationwide.
She identified lack of speed limiters in vehicles, particularly public service vehicles, as a significant contributing factor to accidents.
“Speed is the leading cause of accidents on our roads, accounting for up to 70 percent of total accidents,” explained Ogut.
NTSA’s data reveals a worrisome trend, with fatalities increasing by 5 percent compared to the same period last year, reaching a total of 1,214 fatalities by April 3rd. In response, the NTSA has intensified efforts to engage with drivers and Matatu Saccos, summoning them for sensitization sessions on road safety protocols.
Engineer Ogut further outlined NTSA’s commitment to auditing different sections of the country’s roads, providing reports, and advising road agencies on measures to curb accidents in specific regions.
“As the audit safety department, we are actively assessing road conditions and providing recommendations to enhance safety,” Ogut affirmed.
The launch of this operation underscores NTSA’s dedication to promoting road safety and reducing road accidents across the nation.
Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders and ongoing sensitization initiatives, NTSA aims to create a safer environment for all road users and mitigate the devastating impact of road accidents for road users.
By Lamech Willy. A
