The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has joined forces with seven counties along the Northern Corridor to tackle the growing number of road accidents in Kenya. These counties—Nakuru, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisumu, Makueni, Nairobi, and Siaya—will work together to establish transport and safety committees aimed at improving road safety and public transport management. The initiative focuses on enhancing pedestrian walkways, improving non-motorized transport infrastructure, and increasing accessibility for all road users.
NTSA Director General George Njau emphasized that the goal of this partnership is to proactively engage with local communities to reduce fatalities. He explained that the initiative isn’t about penalizing traffic offenders but about raising awareness, providing education, and fostering a culture of safety. NTSA will work with county governments to integrate road safety measures into their development plans for long-term improvements. Njau pointed out that pedestrians and boda boda riders are among the most vulnerable road users and urged counties to focus on improving pedestrian infrastructure, installing clearer road markings, and enhancing signage.
In Nairobi, Transport CEC Ibrahim Auma expressed support for the collaboration, noting that it would address key factors contributing to road fatalities, including the registration of boda boda operators and their Saccos to ensure discipline on the roads. Nairobi is also focusing on constructing safe pedestrian pathways to reduce accidents. Kericho County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo highlighted the importance of rural areas, where the majority of road users are, and stated that National Government Administrative Officers will create safety messages in local languages to reach all road users effectively.
NTSA data reveals that over 4,000 people died in road accidents in 2024, with pedestrians making up a significant portion of these fatalities. This new partnership is expected to improve road safety and reduce accidents in the involved counties.
