Interior Security Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkome. Photo/FB
By Daisy Okiring
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered strict enforcement measures against speeding miraa drivers along the Embu–Nairobi Highway following a spate of deadly crashes that have sparked public outrage in Kirinyaga and Embu counties.
Speaking in Kerugoya during the Jukwaa la Usalama county security forum, Murkomen directed Regional Traffic Commander Elizabeth Vivi to enforce all necessary traffic laws to deal with miraa vehicles linked to frequent accidents.
“I have given the regional traffic commander the mandate to do anything under the law to deal with this issue, especially accidents caused by miraa drivers,” Murkomen said.
Public Outcry After Fatal Accidents
The directive comes amid growing anger from residents following a series of crashes involving miraa transport vehicles. According to Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, at least 21 lives have been lost along the Mwea–Embu Highway since January 2025 due to speeding vehicles, many of them transporting miraa.
“Our people are calling for stricter regulation of these vehicles, including possible rerouting and enhanced traffic enforcement to protect innocent road users,” Waiguru said.
She emphasised that children and pedestrians have borne the brunt of reckless driving, calling for urgent intervention before more lives are lost.
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Failed Talks with Transporters
Murkomen disclosed that efforts to hold discussions with miraa vehicle owners and transporters had collapsed after they failed to attend scheduled meetings during his Eastern region security tour.
“They have refused to attend the meeting. So now, we will intensify enforcement until they are compelled to come to the table,” Murkomen said.
He accused some politicians of shielding miraa operators in the name of protecting profits, warning that human life must take precedence.
“Let’s be honest, between miraa profits and a child being hit by a car, which one matters more? We cannot sacrifice people’s lives at the altar of profit,” he said.
Highway Safety Concerns
The Embu–Nairobi Highway has become one of Kenya’s most dangerous roads, with frequent accidents blamed on overspeeding, reckless overtaking, and poorly maintained vehicles. Miraa transporters, often racing to deliver the highly perishable crop to Nairobi and export hubs, have been singled out as a major contributor to the carnage.
Authorities say miraa drivers frequently flout traffic rules, including overloading, overlapping, and ignoring pedestrian crossings. The government has now vowed to step up highway patrols, increase speed checks, and impound vehicles that break the law.
Waiguru Calls for Broader Security Action
Governor Waiguru, who joined Murkomen at the county forum, welcomed the crackdown but urged the Interior Ministry to adopt a holistic approach to security. She praised the Jukwaa la Usalama initiative, noting that it reflects government commitment to partnering with counties on safety and service delivery.
Beyond road safety, Waiguru called for tougher measures against illicit alcohol, rising youth radicalisation, and crime in rural and urban centres. She also pushed for rehabilitation programmes and alternative livelihoods for young people drawn into crime.
“Security begins with the community itself. Strengthening grassroots structures builds trust and ensures quicker, more targeted responses by security agencies,” Waiguru said.
She also urged investment in technology-driven surveillance and digital reporting platforms to modernise security operations and make law enforcement more efficient.
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Looking Ahead
Murkomen assured residents that the government would not relent until miraa drivers adhered to traffic laws. He pledged that enforcement operations along the highway would be continuous, with offenders facing arrests, fines, and possible license suspensions.
The CS said the campaign was part of broader reforms aimed at reducing road fatalities across the country. Kenya loses more than 4,000 people annually to road accidents, with reckless driving cited as the leading cause.
“We will not allow impunity on our roads. Enforcement will continue, and lives must come first,” Murkomen said.
As the crackdown takes shape, residents of Kirinyaga and Embu hope the tough measures will finally make the Mwea–Embu Highway safer for all road users.
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