Mombasa: Mombasa County has launched its Second Speeding Campaign alongside the 2024 Mombasa Road Safety Report in a coordinated push to curb road accidents during the festive season. The event was held at the Governor’s Office and brought together the County officials, National government agencies, road sector stakeholders, public transport operators, and law enforcement representatives.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during the launch, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Transport, Infrastructure and Governance, Daniel Manyala, said the campaign is aimed at inspiring safer behavior among all road users at a time when travel and festive activities traditionally surge. Manyala highlighted the importance of road safety and accident prevention under his department, emphasizing the launch of a mass media campaign to encourage caution and adherence to road rules.
‘From 2019 to 2024, we have lost over 200 lives on our roads: parents, students, mothers, doctors, and youth. These were important people in our community. We must ensure our roads are safe. Those who break the law will be held responsible,’ said the CECM. He further stressed the collaboration between the County, National Police Service, engineers, road contractors, and development partners to comprehensively address road safety during the festive period, which has already seen an influx of visitors to Mombasa.
Coast Regional Traffic Police Commander George Kashimiri stated that authorities have increased traffic police presence and intensified enforcement. ‘We have put signage indicating a 50 km/h limit in the CBD. If you exceed it, you’ll be arrested. This applies to all vehicles,’ he said. With the rise in visitors, additional officers have been deployed to manage traffic efficiently. The use of Alco-blow and other enforcement measures will continue throughout the festive season.
Chief Officer for Transport and Traffic Management, Eng. Ali Sharif, elaborated on the strengthened coordination between County and National Traffic Units, as well as the increased security presence on key roads. ‘Being a tourist city, we expect many visitors. We have enhanced cooperation between the County and National Traffic teams. We urge motorists to obey traffic lights and maintain order,’ he said.
NTSA officer, Douglas Nyagwoka, highlighted ongoing enforcement efforts, revealing that 23 Tahmeed Bus drivers were recently suspended for speeding. Their speed governors were instrumental in tracking their violations. ‘This campaign will be of great help. Vehicles without speed governors have a higher crash impact. We are also working with the traffic police to address over speeding in Dongo Kundu,’ he noted.
Matatu Owners Association Chair, Salim Bates, appealed to public service vehicle operators to exercise caution and urged regulators to tighten oversight. The public was encouraged to reflect on their driving habits and become ambassadors of road safety.
