The NTSA said Thursday it will increase surveillance on roads countrywide ahead of the upcoming school reopening. In an advisory, NTSA called for Kenyans to be mindful of the increased movement of schoolgoing children countrywide, cautioning drivers against common road safety infractions such as speeding, reckless overtaking, use of un-roadworthy vehicles, drunk driving, and driver fatigue.
They were further warned against overloading and taking unknown routes that are often ravaged by road carnage. NTSA insisted that a great responsibility lies with the private motorists, PSV operators, school administration, and parents or guardians in ensuring children reach schools safely.
According to the NTSA advisory, the vehicles ferrying children should be insured, roadworthy, and fitted with functional speed governors. At the same time, drivers shall adhere to the licensing requirements through possession of valid road service licenses and inspection certificates.
This is a week before the opening day for students and at a time when teachers have issued a strike notice alongside motorists, starting Monday, August 26. On Wednesday, August 21, the unions maintained their plan for a strike following the collapse of negotiations with the government. The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers and the Kenya National Union of Teachers turned down an offer by the Teachers Service Commission to implement part of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargain Agreement.