NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has issued a Christmas message to Kenyans, wishing the country peace during the festive season and prosperity in the new year, while urging road users to exercise caution as holiday travel intensifies.
Festive Greetings and Call for Responsibility
In his message on Wednesday, the President expressed gratitude to citizens for their resilience throughout 2025. “Wakenya, 2025, we clocked it.
I wish you a Merry Christmas, a great and blessed 2026,” he said.
Ruto highlighted road safety as a recurring concern during the festive period, when millions of Kenyans travel to rural homes and holiday destinations. “Na Kule Barani, let’s drive carefully, avoid unnecessary losses,” he added.
The President’s remarks come as government agencies intensify campaigns to reduce road fatalities, which traditionally rise during Christmas and New Year.
Public service vehicles are under increased scrutiny, and passengers have been urged to report reckless driving.
Road Safety in Focus After Recent Accidents
The President’s appeal follows a series of accidents that have underscored the urgency of road safety.
On Tuesday night, four members of former Chief Justice David Maraga’s campaign team were injured in a collision with a lorry while travelling back to Nairobi.
Rescue teams rushed them to hospital, with no fatalities reported.
In a separate incident at Sachangwan along the Nairobi-Nakuru-Eldoret highway, one person died and ten others sustained serious injuries in a crash involving three matatus and two trucks.
These accidents highlight the risks associated with increased travel during the festive season and reinforce the government’s call for vigilance on the roads.
Leaders Echo Safety Concerns
Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir also urged Kenyans to prioritise safety.
“I want to encourage the drivers, the operators, the passengers who will be traveling in privately owned vehicles or in public vehicles to really ensure that we drive safely, we be cautious on our roads and we preserve lives by not driving carelessly as we travel during this festive period,” he said.
He reminded motorists to ensure vehicles are in good condition and to comply with traffic rules.
As Kenyans mark Christmas through travel, family gatherings, and religious events, Ruto’s message added to broader national well-wishes, reflecting appreciation for citizens and a hope for unity as the year ends.
