DCI boss Mohamed Amin (Left) and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanjaduring a press briefing in Nairobi on December 5, 2024.PHOTO:POOL
A troubling 4,282 people have been killed in road traffic accidents this year, marking an increase from the 4,090 fatalities recorded in the same period in 2023. This represents a rise of 192 lives lost. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja described the increase as “alarming,” stressing the gravity of the situation.
“These are not just numbers, but human lives that have been tragically lost or impacted by road carnage,” Kanja said. “The rise in fatalities points to the urgent need for more responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws.”
Comparing this year’s figures to last year’s, the police recorded a 6% increase in fatal accidents. From January to November, 3,681 fatal accidents were reported, up from 3,469 in 2023, marking an increase of 212 accidents. Furthermore, the number of victims in road traffic accidents rose from 20,239 in 2023 to 21,620 this year, an increase of 1,381 victims (7%).
Kanja linked the rise in accidents to common preventable factors, particularly non-compliance with traffic rules and regulations. He noted that road traffic accidents tend to spike during festive seasons, and early indicators show that this year is no exception.
“We are seeing an increase in accidents already this year, and as we approach the festive season, we must take immediate action to reduce these numbers,” Kanja added.
To address the escalating problem, Kanja called on all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and boda boda riders, to adopt safer behaviors. “I appeal to all Kenyans to embrace better road habits—avoid speeding, never drive under the influence, and always wear seat belts. Road safety is a collective responsibility,” he emphasized.
In response to the surge in fatalities, the police have bolstered their efforts to ensure road safety. “We have deployed additional traffic officers across the country to ensure the free flow of traffic and to enforce road safety laws,” Kanja said. The National Police Service is also collaborating with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to conduct road safety compliance checks and crackdowns on major highways. Additionally, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is assisting to prevent corruption on the roads, which often exacerbates the situation.
As part of the broader security plan for the festive season, Kanja revealed that more specialized police units, including Uniformed Police Units and undercover officers, would be conducting intensified patrols and surveillance. These efforts are aimed at enhancing safety in key areas such as major towns, shopping malls, places of worship, and critical infrastructure sites.
“We are also deploying more police officers in areas with heavy vehicular traffic and public gatherings, such as shopping malls and entertainment venues,” Kanja said. “This is part of our broader strategy to ensure security across the country.”
The Inspector General also warned that the festive season, combined with ongoing rains, would create additional challenges. “We expect heavy traffic snarl-ups and poor visibility on the roads, which could be compounded by flooded areas,” he stated.
The police, alongside other agencies, have taken measures to address rising threats in both urban and rural areas. A total of 10,317 officers have been deployed from the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forestry Service, and the Kenya Coast Guard Service to manage public safety during this period.
Additionally, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo announced the activation of multi-agency command centers to coordinate security efforts across the country. “All regional and county security committees have been directed to operationalize multi-agency command centers to monitor and address any security threats during this period,” Omollo said.
He further emphasized the importance of close coordination between public and private sectors. “We urge proprietors of shopping malls, entertainment centers, and event organizers to work with local security teams to enhance safety measures, especially given the large crowds expected,” he added.
Kanja concluded by urging Kenyans to report any criminal activities or suspicious behaviors. “We call on the public to remain vigilant and report any crime or unusual activity to the nearest police station or through our hotlines: 999, 112, 911, and #FichuakwaDCI 0800 722 203,” he said.
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