3000 people die of road accidents in Kenya every year 40% of these being a result of bodaboda riders.
This is according to the NTSA board chairperson Madam Agnes Odhiambo who said that these accidents strain health facilities because every hospital has been forced to establish an accident ward.
Speaking during the launch of the Usalama Barabarani Programme in Kakamega County, Odhiambo said the Programme targets improving safety on roads to reduce fatalities. Mr George Njau, NTSA Director-General said they will continue to create public awareness and education on road safety.
Kakamega Governor H.E Dr Wycliffe Oparanya has asked the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to revive road safety training across the country to address the increasing number of road accidents. He said most road accidents are being caused by Boda Boda riders who lack basic road safety knowledge and driving licences.
Governor Oparanya urged NTSA to consider having refresher courses for all drivers to update their driving skills.
Deputy Governor H.E Prof Philip Kutima regretted that most road users do not observe traffic rules. He noted that motorists have been notorious for violating traffic rules leading to increased accidents claiming the lives of innocent people.
“Careless driving has been a major cause of road accidents. I urge road users to be careful and observe traffic rules always to avert some accidents that are caused by human error,” said H.E Prof Kutima.
