By Paul Karuga Njuguna (Executive Director Road Safety Awareness Initiative @RSAIKenya)
Holiday periods in Kenya consistently bring higher traffic volumes, increased long-distance travel, and a heightened risk of road crashes. Factors such as poor vehicle maintenance, speeding, inadequate planning, and driver fatigue significantly increase the likelihood of collisions. Observing basic safety measures can greatly reduce these risks.
Road safety statistics remain alarming. Between June 2024 and March 2025, Kenya recorded 3,581 road fatalities, averaging 12 deaths per day. Pedestrians are the most affected, followed by motorcyclists, passengers, and pillion riders, a 10% rise compared to the previous financial year. There is also a concerning increase in truck crashes along the Northern Corridor, largely linked to labour-law violations and unrealistic work schedules that push drivers into fatigue. Fatigued driving mirrors the impairment caused by alcohol.
Several conditions worsen crash risks during festive periods, including:
- Heavy traffic on major routes
- Driver fatigue from long or unfamiliar journeys
- Frequent speeding, lane indiscipline, and unsafe overtaking
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Slower emergency response during peak days
Vehicle Readiness
Drivers should ensure their vehicles are inspected at least a week before travel. Key checks include tyres (including the spare), lights, indicators, windscreens, wipers, brakes, steering, shock absorbers, and the exhaust system.
- Service the vehicle at a reputable garage.
- Confirm that your licence and insurance are valid,an invalid licence voids insurance coverage.
- Avoid overloading and respect capacity limits.
- Check all fluid levels, battery condition, and coolant.
- Pack essentials: drinking water, snacks, blankets, toilet paper, and an emergency kit with basic tools, a spare tyre, reflective triangle, torch, first-aid supplies, and a power bank.
Driver Fitness
- Get adequate rest; never drive when fatigued.
- Take breaks every 2 hours or 200 km.
- Avoid starting long trips after dark.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Keep your licence accessible at all times.
Route Planning
• Plan routes in advance and allow extra time. • Check weather forecasts and road conditions. • Use Google Maps, Waze, or verified NTSA/KeNHA updates for live traffic. • Have backup routes and share travel plans with trusted contacts.
Safe Driving Practices
• Maintain a minimum 2-second following distance (increase in rain, fog, or at night). • Obey speed limits. • Overtake only when fully safe. • Stay alert to risky behaviour by other road users. • Use headlights consistently and dip beams for oncoming traffic.
Avoiding Distractions
• Do not text or hold phone calls while driving. • Use hands-free features or Do Not Disturb mode. • Keep valuables out of sight.
Seatbelt and Child Safety
• Ensure all occupants wear seatbelts. • Secure children in appropriate restraints.
Guidance for Pedestrians
• Use crossings, sidewalks, and footpaths. • Wear reflective or bright clothing at night. • Avoid crossing roads when extremely tired or intoxicated.
Boda Boda Riders and Passengers
• Helmets are mandatory for both rider and passenger. • Wear reflective vests. • Avoid overloading. • Maintain brakes, tyres, and lights regularly. • Keep the headlight on whenever the bike is moving.
Emergency Preparedness
In case of an incident: • Stop safely and activate hazard lights. • Place a reflective warning triangle at a safe distance. • Call emergency services. • Keep key contacts handy, including police, ambulance, and breakdown services.
Route Monitoring
High-traffic periods require live updates. Confirm alternatives using navigation tools or official advisories before using routes such as:
- Mang’u–Flyover → Njambini → Olkalou → Dundori → Lanet → Nakuru
- Gilgil → Olkalou → Dundori → Lanet → Nakuru
- Ngong → Suswa → Western Kenya • “Kinale Forest” (only when verified safe)
Technology for Safer Travel
• Telematics and speed governors for PSVs and long-haul trucks
• Reporting potholes or incidents through navigation apps
• Real-time alerts from NTSA and road-safety organizations
• Expansion of smart-infrastructure hazard-detection systems
Government and industry stakeholders should continue strengthening road infrastructure, improving trauma response, and enhancing enforcement through visible patrols, checkpoints, and speed-camera coverage.
Holiday travel can remain safe and orderly when supported by proper planning, responsible driving, and coordinated action across all sectors.
Quick-Check Dashboard
• Vehicle serviced
• Navigation tools ready
• Emergency kit packed
• Rest schedule prepared
• No alcohol or fatigue
• Seatbelts on
• Safe following distance
• Speed limits observed
Wishing every Road User a merry christmas and a happy new year.Drive safe and be safe.Arrive Alive.A change of attitude can make everyone safe