The year is almost coming to an end and life in the country is going back to normal buoyed by the lifting of the night curfew.
Festivities are around the corner and very soon everyone will be bubbling with joy in anticipation of the season.
The matatu frenzy is slowly creeping back.
Previously, more road accidents have been reported during the festivities as compared to the rest of the year.
According to a report released by National Transport and Safety Authority, in December last year, the total number of road fatalities stood at 3508, compared to 3241 recorded during the same period, in 2019.
The report is more worrisome given that the rise in road carnage during the period, happened against a backdrop of Covid-19 containment measures.
These would naturally be expected to lead to a reduction in the cases.
The increase is attributed to drunk driving, speeding and reckless road users, for instance, riders who continue to effortlessly flout traffic rules.
This year things are not looking good going by the figures released by NTSA in September.
According to the report, 3212 people had been killed between January and September 20. This is an increase of 25 per cent from last year when 2560 cases were recorded.
As we wrap up the year, we need to be cognizant of fact that December festivities come with an increase in human travels.
However, road accidents can be prevented if we all observe traffic rules and work in unison with the law enforcers.
The police should ensure that the road unworthy vehicles are not allowed to ply our roads.
In addition, only qualified and licensed drivers should be allowed on our roads.
Drunk drivers should not be allowed on the roads. The alcohol testers (alcoblow) should be introduced on all major highways in Kenya to nab drunk drivers.
Authorities should carry out campaigns on our roads especially before and during the festive season to sensitize drivers, riders, pedestrians and other road users on road safety.
If we unite, road accidents will end.
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
