The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), alongside other stakeholders, has cautioned motorists against contravening traffic rules during the festive season. This urgent appeal aims to significantly reduce the alarming rate of road accidents across Kenya.
Authorities note that road fatalities typically skyrocket in December as Kenyans travel upcountry and to various destinations for holiday festivities.
NTSA on High Alert
NTSA, through its Thika Region Director Pavleen Mutuma, confirms that it is on high alert. The authority is collaborating closely with other agencies, including the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), the Red Cross, and the National Police Service (NPS).
This multi-agency effort focuses on substantially reducing accident incidents. “We have implemented rigid measures to restore sanity on our roads and minimize mishaps,” Mutuma stated.
She added, “We have already conducted two multi-agency road shows to sensitize motorists and the public on proper road use and adherence to traffic rules during the festive season.”
Speaking to journalists in Thika town, Mutuma also revealed that NTSA has mapped out accident hotspots across the region for increased surveillance. The authority expresses concern over the high number of accident victims recorded this year, with the Kiambu region alone reporting 300 fatalities.
“NTSA is now highly focused and has prioritized reducing these accidents. We urge motorists and the public to remain vigilant while using our roads,” she emphasized.
KeNHA Board Chairperson Winfred Ngumi echoed these sentiments, highlighting that key players in the transport industry are working collaboratively to curb the worrying number of accidents nationwide.
Rising Road Carnage Statistics
Data released last month by NTSA indicates that close to 4,200 people have died on Kenyan roads this year. Motorcyclists account for a significant portion, with 1,085 fatalities. This represents a 9.15 percent increase in motorcyclist deaths compared to last year.
A report from acting NTSA Director General Angela Wanjira revealed that between January 1 and November 13, 2023, Kenya recorded 21,042 road crash victims. This includes 4,195 fatalities, a 2.9 percent increase from the 4,077 deaths reported during the same period last year.
The report also noted an 11.4 percent rise in slight injuries, totaling 6,959 cases, while serious injuries saw a 2.8 percent decrease to 8,888 cases.
Ngumi appealed to Kenyans: “We appreciate the significant amount of travel during this period, but we appeal to all to be vigilant and adhere to all traffic rules. We are working closely with agencies like the National Police Service and NTSA to ensure road sanity. Drivers must also be alert and refrain from drunk driving, which endangers lives.”
Medics Emphasize Post-Accident Care
Dr. Daniel Somba, Managing Director and Chief Radiologist of MIC Imaging Center in Thika town, confirmed that health facilities typically experience a surge in accident victims during festive seasons.
He noted that most survivors of road carnages suffer serious injuries, particularly head injuries, fractures, spinal damage, and internal injuries.
Dr. Somba advised the public on crucial indicators to monitor after an accident, such as bleeding, internal bleeding, breathing difficulties, and bloating. He stressed that prompt medical intervention is often life-saving.
“It is imperative to seek medical attention after an accident, even if you feel unharmed,” Dr. Somba advised. “In cases of suspected internal bleeding, we conduct ultrasounds, CT scans, and X-rays to locate the bleeding source, confirm if it has stopped, and recommend necessary medical interventions.”
He reiterated the call for all road users to adhere to traffic rules and maintain respect on the roads to reduce fatalities and prevent the loss of innocent lives. Dr. Somba highlighted speeding, flouting traffic rules, and driving under the influence as primary causes of these accidents.
