Nairobi: A sharp rise in fatal accidents in recent weeks has prompted the Ministry of Roads and Transport to conduct safety audits on key roads and highways in the country. Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir stated on Monday that the audit teams are expected to finish their work within seven days.
According to Kenya News Agency, 'In response to a concerning surge in car crashes involving public, private and commercial vehicles, officials from various agencies will be conducting safety audits. The purpose is to identify road deficiencies and recreate accident scenes,' he said. 'The role of the team is to provide suggestions that will be implemented in the near future to prevent further loss of lives,' the CS stated.
The ministry also committed to collaborating with stakeholders to implement the measures outlined in Kenya's National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2025 with the resources currently at their disposal. The CS reiterated that plans to improve road safety laws were in their final stages, with measures being put in place to address a range of issues, including school transport, commercial vehicle operations, drunk driving, inspection of vehicles and a review of the Traffic Act.
The government, through the ministry, is also working to address road framework impediments by redesigning the Nithi Bridge and adding a second carriageway to the Rironi-Mau Summit Road. Additionally, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) will continue to expand its public education and awareness campaigns to encourage safer behavior among road users.
The CS urged all road users and operators to strictly follow safety regulations. He emphasized that complying with speed limits, vehicle maintenance standards, proper licensing and traffic laws is not optional but a collective responsibility essential for safeguarding Kenyan lives.
Between January and August 10, 2025, at least 2,933 fatalities have been recorded, according to Ministry of Roads and Transport data. The ministry also noted an alarming spike in the last four days, with 80 deaths occurring in crashes involving public service vehicles, private cars and commercial trucks - a trend that has raised serious concerns about road safety compliance.