State begins safety audits on roads as crashes soar

The government has announced urgent road safety measures following a spike in fatal crashes, with 80 deaths recorded in just four days.

In a statement on Monday, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said a total of 2,933 people have lost their lives on Kenyan roads between January and August 10, 2025.

“Crash data indicates a total of 2,933 fatalities have been reported between January and August 10, 2025. Unfortunately, 80 occurred over the past four days,” CS Chirchir said.

“Following this spike in crashes involving public service vehicles, private and commercial vehicles, officials drawn from various agencies are conducting safety audits on the road segments to identify safety deficiencies and to reconstruct the scenes.”

Chirchir said the team is expected to complete the exercise within the next seven days and submit technical recommendations for implementation to avert unnecessary loss of lives.

He expressed condolences to bereaved families and wished quick recovery to those injured.

Chirchir said the government remains committed to implementing both short- and medium-term measures outlined in Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan 2024–2028.

 “We will continue working with all stakeholders to implement measures within the available resources,” he said.

Ongoing legislative reforms target school transport regulation, commercial vehicle operations, drink-driving controls, motor vehicle inspections, roadside station standards, and a review of the Traffic Act.

The CS also cited infrastructure projects aimed at improving safety, including the redesign of the Nithi Bridge and the dualling of the Rironi–Mau Summit Road, which are nearing completion.

He said the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) will intensify road safety coordination, public education, and awareness campaigns to change road user behaviour.

Chirchir called on all transport stakeholders, including drivers, pedestrians, boda boda riders, and cyclists, to take personal responsibility for safety.

“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 added.

He urged a collaborative approach to reduce fatalities, saying road crashes are not only predictable but also preventable if all road users played their part.

“This wholistic and collaborative approach will go a long way in reducing fatalities and injuries on our roads. Let us all play our part in ensuring Kenya’s roads are safe for everyone,” the CS added.