By John Kariuki
Matatu Owners Association President Albert Karakacha has urged motorists, particularly public service vehicle (PSV) drivers, to exercise heightened caution on the roads as thousands of Kenyans begin travelling to different parts of the country for the holiday season.
With families preparing to reunite with relatives and friends, increased movement of passengers is expected along major highways and busy transport corridors. Karakacha has called on drivers to prioritise the safety of passengers and other road users, warning against reckless driving and unnecessary risks that could lead to tragic accidents.
He has emphasised the importance of responsible driving, urging motorists to observe traffic regulations, maintain reasonable speeds and avoid dangerous overtaking. He has also called for patience, particularly on busy highways where increased traffic can tempt motorists into making dangerous decisions.
Karakacha’s appeal comes at a time when road safety remains a major concern during Kenya’s festive travel season, with thousands of people relying on matatus and long-distance buses to reach their holiday destinations.
He has urged PSV operators to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and roadworthy before embarking on long journeys. Particular attention should be given to brakes, tyres, lights, indicators and other essential vehicle components to minimise mechanical failures that could endanger passengers.
Drivers have also been reminded of the dangers of speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and using mobile phones while behind the wheel. Such practices compromise concentration and reaction time, putting passengers, pedestrians and other motorists at risk.
The MOA leadership has further underscored the importance of ensuring that drivers are adequately rested before undertaking long-distance journeys. Driver fatigue, especially during night travel, can significantly compromise road safety and increase the possibility of accidents.
The appeal also highlights the responsibility of matatu owners and transport operators in ensuring that the travelling public receives safe and reliable services throughout the holiday period.
Karakacha has called on vehicle owners to work closely with their drivers and conductors to maintain discipline, ensure compliance with traffic regulations and discourage practices that expose passengers to unnecessary danger.
Conductors have equally been urged to exercise responsibility by ensuring vehicles are not overloaded and that passengers are treated with dignity throughout their journeys. The rush to accommodate more travellers, particularly during peak travel hours, should not compromise safety standards.
As demand for public transport increases, the association is encouraging operators to maintain high standards of professionalism and ensure that every passenger enjoys a safe journey.
Passengers have also been encouraged to use licensed public transport services, avoid boarding overloaded vehicles and speak up whenever they notice dangerous driving or other safety violations.
With many Kenyans looking forward to spending the holidays with their families, Karakacha’s message is a reminder that every journey should begin and end with safety.
He has called for collective responsibility among drivers, vehicle owners, passengers and other road users, emphasising that protecting human life must remain the transport sector’s foremost priority during the holiday season.