25 die in accidents in one day

By Newsflash Writer

At least 25 people lost their lives on Tuesday, December 23, after a series of road accidents were recorded in different parts of the country, casting a dark shadow over the ongoing festive period.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) said the fatalities occurred in 16 separate crashes reported across several counties, including Kakamega, Bungoma, Nakuru, Nyeri, Siaya, Kiambu, Nairobi, Machakos, Narok, Kisii, Turkana and Uasin Gishu. The authority noted that the incidents were spread across highways, urban roads and rural areas, reflecting the widespread nature of the road safety challenge.

According to NTSA data, pedestrians and passengers were the most affected, each accounting for eight deaths. Motorcyclists lost five lives, while three pillion passengers and one driver were also killed. The figures point to the heightened vulnerability of non-motorised road users and commuters during peak travel periods when traffic volumes surge and risky behaviour increases.

Fatal crashes across multiple counties

NTSA expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to families and friends of the victims. The authority said the accidents occurred as thousands of Kenyans travelled to various destinations for Christmas celebrations, a period traditionally associated with increased road traffic and congestion.

The agency acknowledged that festive travel often comes with elevated risks, including speeding, drunk driving, overloading and the use of unroadworthy vehicles. In response, NTSA said it has intensified surveillance and enforcement operations, deploying all available resources to enhance road safety and prevent further fatalities.

Enforcement operations intensified

In addition to reporting the fatalities, NTSA revealed that multi-agency enforcement teams have uncovered widespread violations over the past four days. A total of 1,702 traffic offences involving commercial, public service and private vehicles were recorded during compliance checks conducted nationwide.

The most common violations included the absence or malfunctioning of speed limiters, driving under the influence of alcohol, operating unroadworthy vehicles, carrying excess passengers, insurance irregularities and operating without valid Road Service Licences.

As a result, 42 drivers were arrested, while 418 vehicles were flagged as non-compliant and removed from service.

NTSA warned that enforcement operations will remain heightened throughout the festive season. The authority urged drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists to exercise extreme caution, obey traffic laws and use the roads responsibly.

The agency stressed that many of the deaths recorded on Tuesday were preventable, noting that strict adherence to traffic regulations and responsible behaviour by all road users is key to reducing crashes and saving lives.