Road Safety Association of Kenya Reports 4,265 Road Accident Deaths Since January, Urges Government Action
The Road Safety Association of Kenya (RSAK) has reported an unprecedented number of deaths from road accidents this year. Speaking at a press conference, RSAK Chairman David Kiarie revealed that since January 1, 2024, there have been 4,265 fatalities, a record high for the country since independence.
Kiarie attributed the alarming rise in deaths to the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) failure to enforce vehicle inspections. He pointed out that in the previous year, 1.2 million vehicles did not undergo mandatory inspections. The fees for these inspections, set at 6,000 Kenyan shillings per vehicle, resulted in a loss of 7.2 billion Kenyan shillings for the country.
“The NTSA’s negligence and corruption have cost lives and significant revenue,” Kiarie stated, condemning the authority for putting Kenyans at risk. He called on the Ministry of Transport to fulfill its mandate of ensuring the safety of Kenyan citizens on the roads.
In a direct appeal, Kiarie urged President William Ruto to intervene and address the road carnage crisis. He emphasized the need for immediate government action to save lives.
Despite Kenya having an extensive road network, Kiarie criticized the lack of essential road safety features. “Our roads lack safety signs, cat eyes, and proper markings. We have the capacity to manufacture these locally, but the implementation is lacking,” he said.
Kiarie also appealed to all stakeholders in the road safety industry to collaborate and work towards a common goal of reducing road accidents and fatalities. He urged Kenyans to take personal responsibility for their safety by remaining vigilant on the roads and adhering to road safety laws.
“The government has failed to protect us, but we must take care of ourselves and each other on the roads,” Kiarie added
The RSAK’s call to action highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms and stringent enforcement of road safety regulations to prevent further loss of life on Kenya’s roads
