The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has identified nine primary practices that contribute significantly to the alarming number of road accidents in Kenya, resulting in substantial economic loss.
According to a report released by NTSA Board Chair Manoj Shah, drunk-walking ranks among the top causes of road accidents, alongside more traditional culprits such as drunk driving, drunk riding, speeding, reckless driving, lane indiscipline, failure to wear seatbelts, driver fatigue, and disregarding road signs.
The economic impact of road accidents in Kenya is staggering, amounting to approximately 5 percent of the country’s GDP annually, or roughly Sh310 billion according to the statement.
With road transport serving as the backbone of Kenya’s transportation system, the country witnesses a tragic loss of around 3,000 lives each year due to road accidents. This grim statistic aligns with the global trend, where millions are affected by road traffic injuries and fatalities
The report was released on the World Day of Remembrance, observed annually on the third Sunday of November to honour the memory of road traffic victims.
To mitigate road accidents, NTSA has implemented various measures such as the nationwide Usalama Barabarani campaign and collaborative compliance checks with the National Police Service.
They are also actively working to improve road safety regulations by reviewing existing rules and developing new ones to ensure effective road safety regulations.
Additionally, by automating vehicle inspections and increasing safety audits, the authority is fast leveraging technology to improve road safety. They have also empowered County Transport and Safety Committees to address local road safety concerns.
To ensure effective road safety regulations, NTSA is seeking public input on proposed changes by engaging the public to submit their views online before November 30.
The authority is also collaborating with Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development to integrate road safety education which will guarantee that future generations are equipped with road safety knowledge, to foster a culture of road safety.
This year’s World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims involved NTSA officials leading nationwide events to honour those lost to road accidents by organising candle lighting ceremonies and tree planting initiatives where over 8,000 seedlings were planted.
The authority also urged the government to prioritise investments in road safety infrastructure and public awareness programs.
By Hellen Lunalo
