NAIROBI, Kenya- As the festive season winds down and schools prepare to reopen, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is calling on all road users to prioritize children’s safety.
The authority has emphasized that protecting young learners during this transition is a collective responsibility, requiring vigilance from motorists, school administrators, and parents alike to prevent accidents that could result in injuries or fatalities.
In response to growing concerns over reckless driving, NTSA has intensified multi-agency road safety compliance checks across the country.
The authority has observed an alarming disregard for basic traffic rules, warning that if such behavior continues unchecked, it could put children’s lives at risk as they travel back to school.
Road users are being urged to strictly adhere to the Highway Code, remain extra cautious, and reduce speed, particularly in areas where children are likely to be crossing roads or boarding school transport.
Motorists, whether private vehicle owners or public service operators, are being reminded to ensure that vehicles transporting children meet specific safety standards.
NTSA has outlined key requirements, including roadworthiness, valid insurance, and the installation of functional speed limiters connected to the Intelligent Road Safety Management System (IRSMS).
In addition, vehicles must comply with licensing regulations by possessing valid road service licenses and inspection certificates.
To empower parents and guardians, NTSA is encouraging the use of its free mobile app, available on the Google Play Store, which allows users to verify the compliance status of public transport vehicles, drivers, and conductors before children board.
The authority has stressed that under no circumstances should children be allowed to travel in non-compliant vehicles.
Recognizing that children are among the most vulnerable road users, NTSA is urging the public to play an active role in ensuring their safety.
Community involvement has proven effective in identifying and eliminating reckless driving, and NTSA is calling on citizens to remain vigilant and report any non-compliant vehicles or dangerous driving practices.
The agency has assured the public that necessary actions will be taken against motorists who endanger lives.
To further promote safer roads, NTSA is continuing its nationwide multi-agency compliance checks alongside the Usalama Barabarani education program.
The authority is reiterating the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, emphasizing that road safety is a shared responsibility that requires consistent efforts from every sector of society.
