Kenya Records 974 Deaths in Road Accidents Since January 2023, NTSA Reports

According to data released by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), Kenya recorded 974 deaths from road accidents between January and March of 2023. The data reveals that pedestrians accounted for the highest number of fatalities at 330, followed by motorcyclists at 265, and passengers at 171. During the three-month period, NTSA recorded 98 driver deaths, 93 pillion passengers, and 17 pedal cyclists.

The good news, however, is that the overall number of fatalities dropped from 1,021 to 974 deaths recorded over the same period last year. This represents a 4.6% drop, which is a positive trend in road safety.

NTSA attributed the reduction in fatalities to increased public education and awareness through the Government Road Safety Mainstreaming Programme and the Usalama Barabarani Campaign supported by the European Union. These initiatives are geared towards behavior and attitude change, especially among vulnerable road users.

NTSA is calling on all road users to be cognizant of the risks associated with driving in the rain and appealed to drivers to exercise caution as the rainy season begins in the country. Hydroplaning is a serious threat during the rainy season, and drivers must avoid endangering their lives and those of their passengers.

As the Easter festivities approach, NTSA is calling on all road users to engage in safe road use practices and exercise caution. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone must do their part to ensure that our roads are safe for all users.

In conclusion, the reduction in road accident fatalities is a positive trend, and we must all continue to work together to improve road safety in Kenya. With the right education and awareness, we can reduce the number of accidents on our roads and ensure that our roads are safe for all users.