By Paul Karuga Njuguna– Executive Director, Road Safety Awareness Initiative, Kenya @RSAIKenya
Car racing in Kenya takes many forms, including rally, circuit, and street racing. Each is organized and governed by different bodies, with the Kenya Motor Sports Federation (KMSF) as the primary regulatory authority overseeing legal motorsport activities.
While car racing can offer excitement, it also poses significant risks, necessitating strict legal controls to mitigate potential hazards. Unfortunately, illegal street racing, particularly among young people, has become a popular yet highly dangerous trend. Many participants modify their cars with remapped ECUs and enhanced engines, using high-performance models such as Audis, VW Golfs, Subarus, Nissan GTRs, and BMWs.
The Kenya National Rally Championship (KNRC), regulated by the KMSF, provides a safe framework for rally enthusiasts. Events like the Safari Rally, organized by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) and World Rally Championship (WRC), limit speeds to a maximum of 190 km/h, prioritizing safety even at high speeds. The Rhino Charge, another notable motorsport event, is also governed by the KMSF, adhering to strict safety measures. Activities involving public safety and order are subject to various laws and regulations to protect participants, spectators, and the public and prevent illegal practices.
Despite these legal avenues, illegal street races continue to occur across counties, often held on airstrips or public roads and fueled by social media’s glamorization of high-speed driving. In some cases, speeds exceed 200 km/h, which is even faster than WRC vehicles, which are equipped with rigorous safety features. Tragic accidents have highlighted the risks of unregulated races; for example, the loss of a talented young driver at the popular Kiamburing street race and in June 2020, another tragic crash in Arusha, Tanzania, claimed the lives of several Kenyans.
As street racing continues to attract a young audience, a coordinated effort by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) under the Ministry of Roads and Transport is urgently needed. Together, they could develop strategies to nurture young rally enthusiasts safely through the KMSF, helping prevent these talents from finding dangerous, illegal outlets.
The Risks of Illegal Street Racing
Street racing is inherently dangerous, particularly in urban areas where traffic, pedestrians, and unpredictable road conditions multiply the risks. High-speed races greatly increase the likelihood of fatal accidents, and participants often lack the proper gear, safety modifications, or secure road closures. The lack of adherence to basic safety measures endangers not only the drivers but also bystanders, with severe injuries and fatalities all too common.
Unlike dedicated racing tracks, public roads are not designed for high-speed racing. Innocent pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers can fall victim to these races, often blindsided by unexpected high-speed maneuvers. Additionally, illegal street racing typically occurs without the support of safety personnel or emergency responders, meaning that when accidents occur, response times are delayed, and injuries can worsen without immediate care.
Learning from Europe: International Regulations on Street Racing
In Europe, street racing is strictly regulated, and only sanctioned events are allowed under carefully controlled conditions to protect everyone involved. Some key safety protocols include:
- Mandatory Safety Gear: Drivers must wear helmets, fire-resistant suits, and other protective gear to minimize injuries.
- Vehicle Safety Standards: Race cars must meet stringent safety standards, such as having roll cages, reinforced frames, and fire extinguishers. This reduces the risk of fire or structural collapse in case of a crash.
- Controlled Environments: Racing events are held on closed-off roads or designated tracks that separate the racing area from public spaces, drastically reducing the risk to pedestrians and other road users.
- Emergency Preparedness: Licensed events include rapid-response teams, medical personnel, and ambulances on standby. Spectators are positioned in designated safe zones, further minimizing risks.
These precautions highlight the need for structured environments and strict regulations if street racing is to occur safely.
The Need for Policy and Awareness in Kenya
With the rise of illegal street racing, Kenya can draw lessons from Europe to create safe, sanctioned spaces for young people who are passionate about motorsport. The country could develop dedicated race tracks, launch community programs to educate the public on the dangers of illegal street racing, and enforce traffic laws more strictly. Additionally, educational campaigns, driving schools, and community events could help inform young drivers about the risks of unregulated racing and encourage them to pursue legal, safe avenues if they wish to race.
Conclusion
Illegal street racing is a serious risk to public safety in Kenya. Without proper regulation, this dangerous trend may continue to grow, resulting in more injuries and fatalities. By learning from international safety standards, Kenya can work towards creating safer ways for young people to channel their passion for motorsport. Community awareness, government intervention, and the establishment of safe racing environments could transform this hazardous activity into a structured sport that prioritizes safety for all.