Road safety is a shared responsibility, says PS Omollo

By Peter Ochieng

Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo is urging every road user to be vigilant and to remain sober, in a bid to prevent road accidents going into the Christmas and New Year festivities.

In a statement to news room on Thursday evening, the PS said the country is bound to witness a rise in the number of road accidents due to increased travels, adding that caution should be exercised by all road users.

"The safety of every road user is a shared responsibility, and the consequences of reckless driving can be severe. We implore all drivers to prioritize safety, adhere to traffic regulations, and make responsible choices behind the wheel," said the PS.

"In pursuit of festive cheer, it is paramount to arrive alive and arrive safely. The urgency to reach our destinations should never compromise the safety of ourselves and others on the road,” he added.

He called on drivers to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol. "Those planning to celebrate with alcohol should arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation.”

Statistics from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) show that as of October 2023, the country reported 3,609 deaths through road accidents, marking an 8.9 per cent drop compared to 2022 where 3,936 fatalities were reported under the same period.

NTSA estimates that 3,000 Kenyans die from road accidents every year, costing the country anywhere between 3-5 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

On the ongoing El-Nino rains, PS Omolo said drivers should be very careful, since the rain can significantly reduce visibility leading to accidents.

"With the El Nino floods still upon us, the public is advised to stay informed, through the National El Niño Emergency & Disaster Response Command Centre, about weather conditions and cut off roads so as to plan journeys accordingly and avoid unnecessary frustrations.

He said as Kenyans, we should collectively contribute to safer roads, ensuring that this holiday season remains one of safety for all.