Nairobi: The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has set a target of reducing road fatalities by 50 per cent by 2028, as motorists and boda boda riders in Kwale County call for urgent measures to make roads safer. NTSA Board Chairman Khatib Mwashetani said the authority would address concerns raised by riders, including difficulties accessing driving licenses and NTSA services.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mwashetani urged boda boda riders to register through Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) under the Boda Boda Management System (BMS). He emphasized that the system would enable authorities to obtain accurate data on riders and motorcycles, thereby improving safety interventions. Mwashetani acknowledged the importance of the boda boda sector in providing employment and income for many young people.
Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) Kwale Chairman Mahmud Rajab Mwanyumba highlighted that the lack of appropriate driving licenses is a major challenge, with some riders operating without licenses or holding licenses for the wrong category. He also raised concerns over motorcycle insurance costs and called for affordable and transparent insurance premiums. Mwanyumba stressed the need for improved relations between riders and police, as some unlicensed riders avoid reporting accidents for fear of arrest.
Ukunda Boda Boda Chairman Rashid Salim Bora pointed out specific dangerous road sections, such as the stretch from Ibiza through Blue Jay to Markaz, due to inadequate speed bumps, road signs, and pedestrian crossings. Bora mentioned that several fatalities have occurred at these locations, urging for immediate attention to improve safety.
Hamisi Mwero, known as Nayonayo, supported calls for enhanced road infrastructure and recommended the installation of warning signs ahead of speed bumps to prevent accidents. Meanwhile, Base Commander Mwanahamisi Sheria advised riders to avoid speeding, reckless overtaking, and overlapping. She emphasized the importance of possessing valid licenses, insurance, helmets, and reflective gear. Sheria also cautioned tuk-tuk operators against carrying excess passengers.
NTSA Coast Region Head Douglas Nyagwoka highlighted that achieving the 2028 target would require a behavioural change among all road users. “Safety starts with me,” Nyagwoka stated, urging everyone-riders, drivers, passengers, and pedestrians-to contribute to reducing road deaths. He warned riders against operating motorcycles under the influence of alcohol or drugs and discouraged motorcycle modifications that compromise safety.
