At least 974 lives have been lost through road crashes from January up to March 20, 2023.
This, according to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA, is a decrease of 4.6 percent compared to last year's record of the same period.
Overall numbers show a reduction in fatalities from 1,021 to 974 fatalities.
"The NTSA reports a reduction in the number of fatalities involving pedestrians, pillion passengers and motorcyclists," reads the statement.
In 2023, the NTSA report shows that 330 passengers died, drivers- 98, passengers -171, pillion passengers -93, Pedal Cyclists -17 and motorcyclists 265.
Looking at 2022, the numbers were slightly high where 359 passengers died, drivers- 95, passengers -154, pillion passengers -109, Pedal Cyclists -15 and motorcyclists 289.
According to NTSA, the reduction has been attributed to increased public education and awareness through the Government Road Safety Mainstreaming Programme and the Usalama Barabarani Campaign supported by the European Union.
"The road safety sensitization initiatives are geared towards behaviour and attitude change especially among vulnerable road users," reads the NTSA statement.
Going further, the authority says it will continue to implement strategies to reduce road traffic crashes, especially during the rainy season.
"We note that a large part of the country is currently experiencing heavy rainfall and we urge road users to be cognizant of the risks associated with driving in the rain," reads the Statement
NTSA explained that in the past, it has witnessed an unnecessary loss of lives due to poor driver judgement.
It was revealed that incidents of drivers operating school buses, public services vehicles and heavy commercial in an attempt to drive through water resulted in both serious and fatal injuries.
In addition, NTSA calls on drivers not to endanger their lives and that of their passengers as hydroplaning is a serious threat during the rainy season.
"Additionally, as the Easter festivities approach, we request road users to engage in safe road use practices, exercise caution and be mindful of others as road safety is a shared responsibility," reads the statement.
