Nairobi – Kenya continues to grapple with the rising toll of road accidents, which have left many families grieving the loss of loved ones and others dealing with lifelong injuries. The 2023 economic survey reveals a concerning trend, with road fatalities increasing from 4,579 in 2021 to 4,690 in 2022. However, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) reports a slight decline in deaths in 2023, with 3,609 fatalities by October, marking an 8.9 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2022.
According to Kenya News Agency, these statistics underscore ongoing efforts by stakeholders to reduce road carnage. Despite these efforts, NTSA estimates that road accidents annually claim about 3,000 lives in Kenya, significantly impacting the nation’s productivity and GDP. The majority of these fatalities are men, particularly in the 30-34 age bracket. The World Health Organization (WHO), however, estimates even higher figures.
Many accidents occur during weekends and holidays, with peak hours identified as 5:00 PM to 8:00 AM. Drunk driving and carelessness are major contributing factors. Vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists, along with passengers in unsafe public transport, constitute the majority of the fatalities.
The festive month of December, known for increased travel, often sees a spike in road accidents due to heightened activities and reckless driving. Simon Mwangi from Mirera Estate in Naivasha recounts his harrowing experience from June 1, 2013, when he and his friends met with a tragic accident on the Nakuru-Naivasha highway, resulting in the death of his two friends and leaving him with severe injuries.
Ruth Ndung’u, Vice Chairperson of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce in Nakuru County, shares a similar tale of a recent accident near Naivasha, highlighting the need for first-aid training for first responders to prevent further injury to accident victims.
These individual stories reflect the broader impact of road accidents in Kenya. In response, the government has implemented various measures to address this issue. Notable among these is the Kenya National Highways Authority’s (KENHA) initiative to install speed cameras on major highways. This move is especially crucial in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kiambu, and Machakos counties, which collectively account for 36 percent of the total road fatalities in 2022.
As the world observed the World Remembrance Day for victims of road accidents on November 19, the focus remains on combating drunk driving, fatigue, and speeding – the leading causes of accidents on Kenyan roads. The government’s proactive approach and technological advancements in monitoring road use are expected to play a significant role in reducing these tragic incidents.