The National Transport and Safety Authority is now carrying out road safety compliance checks on highways all over the country. This move comes as students prepare to go back to school for term-2 reopening, which had been delayed until today Monday 13th.
In a joint effort to ensure adherence to road safety regulations, the police and NTSA have seized multiple vehicles on various roads. Random sobriety tests were also conducted to identify and apprehend drunk drivers.
A social media post named “Pamoja Tuhakikishe Watoto Wetu Wamefika Shuleni Salama” advised people to follow speed limits, keep in their lanes and not drive when they are drunk. The operation, which began over the weekend, is expected to continue until the end of this week. The two agencies are collaborating closely throughout this action.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the importance of road safety for all road users in a statement, where he stressed the critical role of following traffic regulations, particularly speed limits.
Murkomen highlighted the importance of school transport operators adhering to these regulations, just as all public service vehicles do.
President William Ruto directed the traffic police and NTSA to work together to improve road safety. He acknowledged a long-standing disconnect and rivalry between the two agencies regarding traffic enforcement, citing it as a significant factor hindering desired outcomes.
Following the launch of the National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-28 in April, President Ruto instructed the Inspector General of Police and NTSA Director General to implement this collaboration immediately.
He also emphasized the need for public participation and active engagement from other road users in promoting road safety.
The NTSA conducted checkpoints on Thika Road at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Witethie, Juja, Ruiru, and Roysambu. They impounded a school bus with malfunctioning speed limiters and seat belts, along with vehicles with expired road service licenses.The National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-28 aims to achieve a 50% reduction in road accidents.