Pedestrians and Boda Boda Riders Top List of Road Crash Victims as Festive Season Fatalities Surge

Pedestrians and boda boda riders have been identified as the most vulnerable victims of road crashes, with alarming statistics showing an increase in fatalities during the festive season, according to a recent report by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

The report revealed that as of November 2024, over 4,282 people had lost their lives in road crashes—marking a significant rise compared to the same period in previous years.

Of these, pedestrians accounted for 1,600 fatalities, followed by 900 motorcyclists, making them the most affected groups.

Speaking in Mombasa during the launch of a road safety awareness campaign ahead of the December festivities, NTSA Deputy General Manager for the Coast Region, John Parteroi, emphasized the need for vigilance among road users. He warned that the festive season typically sees a spike in road accidents and outlined measures aimed at reversing the trend.

“We have initiated this campaign to educate and caution road users to be more vigilant. Drivers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists must adhere to traffic regulations to ensure their safety and the safety of others,” Parteroi stated.

The campaign, launched on December 10, 2024, targets all road users, with a special focus on drivers of passenger service vehicles, pedestrians, and boda boda riders. Parteroi noted that passenger service vehicle drivers had signed a pledge to drive safely, reduce speeding, and comply with traffic laws.

The initiative, conducted in partnership with the National Police Service (NPS), Bloomberg Philanthropies for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), and the Mombasa County Government, aims to educate road users and enforce strict adherence to traffic regulations.

High-Risk Areas and Reckless Driving

The Kilifi-Malindi road near Kijipwa has been flagged as a high-risk zone, with frequent accidents attributed to speeding and reckless driving. Boda boda riders were also highlighted as a significant factor in pedestrian deaths, often due to traffic violations and hit-and-run incidents.

“Boda boda riders can contribute to safer roads by following traffic rules, avoiding reckless behaviour, and wearing helmets and reflective jackets, especially at night,” Parteroi added.

Technological Enforcement and Sensitization

To curb speeding and reckless driving, NTSA is deploying advanced technological devices capable of monitoring and capturing speeding vehicles on major highways. Parteroi reiterated that private motorists are prohibited from carrying passengers for commercial purposes, a rule reserved for licensed transport Saccos and authorized operators like Uber and Bolt.

Vipul Patel, Coordinator for Bloomberg Philanthropies, emphasized the importance of sustained road safety campaigns. “Speeding remains a major global challenge in road safety. It not only increases the likelihood of crashes but also the severity of injuries sustained,” he said.

Calls for Caution During Festive Season

As the festive season unfolds, NTSA is urging all road users to exercise caution. Pedestrians have been advised to use designated footbridges and avoid dangerous road crossings. Passenger service vehicles, including matatus, have been reminded to adhere to passenger limits of 9 to 14 depending on vehicle size.

“We will continue to educate and enforce road safety measures to save lives,” Parteroi affirmed, urging motorists to drive responsibly and observe traffic rules during the holiday period.

The campaign serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by the roads during the festive season and the collective responsibility required to prevent avoidable tragedies.