This archive report was first published on 22 December 2021.
According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the total number of victims in road crashes in Kenya increased from 15,918 by December 16th, 2020 to 19,571 by December 16th, 2021, a 17.3 percent increase.
Government Spokesman Colonel (Retired) Cyrus Oguna attributed the rise in road fatalities to various factors, including pedestrians crossing roads at undesignated places, overloading goods and excess passengers, failure to observe traffic rules, and reckless behavior by boda boda riders.
Motorcyclists accounted for the highest number of deaths, with 1,634 fatalities, followed by pedestrians at 1,477 and passengers at 727. Drivers came fourth at 426.
The NTSA's December 16th, 2021 road safety status report also stated that 4,347 people were seriously injured in road crashes compared to 3,707 last year, while 5,631 others sustained slight injuries.
The report identified Nairobi, Kiambu, Nakuru, Machakos, Meru, Muranga, Kilifi, Kakamega, and Kisumu as the top leading counties in the number of accidents documented as at December 16th, 2021.
Government Spokesman Oguna called on public service vehicle Saccos to ensure their fleet was in good working condition during the festive season and advised motorists and passengers to plan their journeys to avoid inconveniences or speeding.
He also warned that drivers, vehicle owners, Sacco/company officials, and passengers would be held accountable for contravening route and time, overloading, and other traffic regulations.
