Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has issued a stark warning about the escalating crisis of road accidents in Kenya, revealing that crashes cost the economy up to Sh800bn annually – equivalent to 5% of the country’s gross domestic product.
Speaking ahead of the Christmas travel rush, Chirchir described the figure as “too expensive for the economy and too painful for families”.
Beyond the financial burden, he highlighted the profound human suffering, with many households left bereft after losing breadwinners to reckless driving, speeding and drink-driving.
The human cost is immeasurable, Chirchir said, noting that many fatal incidents occur late at night when drivers are fatigued, intoxicated or drowsy. “You could easily fall asleep on the steering wheel, and that is deadly,” he warned, urging motorists to prioritise rest.
“When you are tired, it is better to look for a safe place to sleep over and continue your journey the next morning. No trip is worth a life.”
With traffic volumes expected to surge over the festive period, the government, through the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), is ramping up public education campaigns to promote responsible road use.
This year has already seen more than 4,400 road deaths, according to NTSA figures, underscoring the urgency of the appeal. Chirchir called for collective responsibility from drivers, pedestrians and passengers alike, insisting that lasting change depends on individual discipline.
