NTSA reports 1,139 deaths in road crashes within three months

The first three months of 2025 have seen troubling road carnage figures on Kenya’s roads, with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) reporting 1,139 fatalities between January 1 and March 31.

The authority has also revealed that 5,856 people were involved in road crashes during this period, showing a drop of 1,908 cases compared to the same period last year.

Of those affected, 3,316 were seriously injured, while 2,693 suffered minor injuries.

A total of 1,189 individuals lost their lives in various road crashes during the same period, NTSA data shows.

This number reflects a slight decrease when compared to the 1,166 deaths recorded last year.

Pedestrians continue to face the greatest risk on the roads, with 420 losing their lives—down from 434 during the same period in 2024.

Motorcyclists also recorded a high number of fatalities, at 301, an increase from 274 reported last year.

In the same quarter, 189 passengers died in different crashes, down from 243 recorded in 2024.

The number of drivers who lost their lives stood at 83, a drop from 94 the previous year.

However, pillion passengers recorded an increase in deaths, with 130 dying in the first three months of 2025 compared to 100 in 2024.

Pedal cyclists also recorded a drop in fatalities, with 16 deaths compared to 21 last year.

The NTSA has now issued a strong warning to motorists as the country enters the Easter season.

A national crackdown on road safety violations is underway, focusing on common causes of accidents such as drunk driving and failure to follow traffic rules.

NTSA non-executive chairman Khatib Mwashetani urged drivers to stay alert and act responsibly during the festive season.

"We want to ask Kenyans to be very vigilant. For those who know that they are drunk, let us not drive or drink while drinking," he said.

Mwashetani also called on public service vehicle operators to install the required speed governors, warning that inspection teams are on the lookout.

"For those who know that their vehicles do not have speed governors, you should ensure that your vehicles are fitted. The team we have here will go round in a crackdown targeting every vehicle parked alongside the road causing traffic jams, or anyone who drives while drinking. They will find themselves not in a good situation," he warned.

In his final appeal, he reminded all road users to comply with traffic rules and maintain sobriety when driving.

"Let us be vigilant. Let us adhere to the law. If you are driving, then drive as a person who is sober," he said, while also extending Easter wishes to all Kenyans.

As the country goes into the Easter festivities, authorities are urging caution on the roads to help prevent further loss of life.