NAIROBI, Kenya — Long-distance drivers have appealed to President William Ruto to intervene and address what they describe as inhumane working conditions, rampant police harassment, and dangerous roads that continue to put their lives and livelihoods at risk.
In an open letter dated September 21, 2025, the Long Distance Drivers Association (LODCA) accused government agencies of neglecting the welfare of drivers, despite their critical role in keeping Kenya’s economy moving.
“We are the men and women who keep the country’s wheels turning—ferrying goods from ports to borders, delivering food, fuel and medicines, and ensuring passengers move safely across counties,” the letter reads.
The association estimates that more than five million Kenyans earn their livelihood directly from driving, whether as truckers, PSV operators, conductors, or cross-border hauliers.
Yet, they say, many endure long hours on treacherous highways for poor pay, delayed salaries, and unregulated contracts.
“This toxic mix has taken a heavy toll on our mental health. Depression, stress and burnout are widespread, with little or no access to support systems,” the group said, urging government action to create a national framework for fair pay, humane conditions, and mental health care.
Police Harassment and Unsafe Roads
LODCA singled out harassment from traffic police, accusing officers of extortion through arbitrary arrests and trumped-up charges.
They also criticised the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), describing them as “reactive, bureaucratic and corrupt.”
The group further raised security concerns along highways in North Eastern, Western, Nyanza, Rift Valley, and Coast regions, where drivers face frequent bandit attacks, hijackings, and armed robberies.
“Instead of safeguarding highways, too many officers extort drivers. Armed attacks and hijackings have cost too many lives. We need intelligence-driven patrols and reliable emergency responses,” they wrote.
Congestion along key transport corridors, especially from Mombasa port to Malaba and Busia borders, was cited as another major challenge.
Poorly maintained highways such as Nairobi–Nakuru, Kisumu–Busia, and Northern Kenya routes were described as “death traps” that waste time and weaken Kenya’s regional competitiveness.
Cross-Border Harassment
Drivers also decried harassment in neighbouring countries including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Congo, and South Sudan, where they reported cases of beatings, imprisonment, and even killings.
They faulted Kenya’s diplomatic efforts for failing to adequately protect its citizens abroad.
Drivers’ Welfare
Among their proposals, the association called for a special drivers’ health insurance scheme covering accidents, cross-border emergencies, and mental health support.
They also suggested creating a National Drivers’ Welfare and Safety Council and declaring an annual National Drivers’ Week to recognise their contributions.
“The engines are running, the roads are calling, but our spirits are broken. Please hear our cry. A driver who feels protected, valued and respected will give his best to Kenya’s growth,” the association appealed.
LODCA is now pushing for a presidential roundtable that brings together drivers, relevant ministries, and government agencies to find lasting solutions to the crisis in the transport sector.
