Mombasa Traffic Police to receive advanced speed monitoring gear
These high-precision speed guns are designed to accurately identify vehicles exceeding speed limits.
In a bid to strengthen traffic enforcement and reduce road accidents in Mombasa, the Global Road Safety Partnership (GRSP), in collaboration with Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), will be handing over advanced laser speed detection equipment to the local police force.
These high-precision speed guns are designed to accurately identify vehicles exceeding speed limits, a move expected to reduce traffic violations and save lives on Kenyan roads.
During a media training session on enforcement and behavior change, GRSP’s Senior Road Policing Officer Artur Zawadzki underscored the value of combining enforcement tools with strategic public engagement.
"While enforcement can have a short-term effect, its long-term success depends on strong communication with the public," he said.
The donation forms part of the broader BIGRS effort in Kenya, which is targeting key risk behaviors including speeding, drunk driving, neglecting seatbelt use, and failure to wear helmets.
"Speeding is a leading contributor to road crashes globally. In Mombasa, enforcement resources are limited, making this support both urgent and essential," Zawadzki stated.
He noted that the laser devices being donated are among the most sophisticated available and are expected to greatly enhance the capacity of local police to enforce speed limits.
To ensure smooth implementation, GRSP has scheduled a two-day training session for traffic officers on May 20 and 21.
Delivered by experts from the equipment’s manufacturing company, the training will focus on proper handling and effective deployment of the new tools.
This technological upgrade is seen as a significant step toward data-informed traffic enforcement, aiming to reduce injuries and fatalities by promoting safer driving habits.
As Mombasa faces a surge in traffic-related incidents, the collaboration between GRSP, local government, and other key stakeholders is being recognized as both timely and impactful.
Kevin Ismael, Communications Coordinator for BIGRS, emphasized the crucial role of journalists in enhancing public awareness around road safety.
"We’re equipping media professionals with the tools to report on road safety more effectively,” he said. “Our objective is to influence public attitudes and improve compliance with traffic laws."
BIGRS has been working closely with agencies such as the National Police Service, the County Government of Mombasa, NTSA, and the Inspectorate to improve both enforcement and public messaging.
While progress has been made, gaps in public understanding—especially concerning speed regulations and helmet use—persist.
"Media must continue driving education around high-risk behaviors like drink-driving, speeding, and the failure to wear seatbelts or helmets," Ismael said.
"Sustained awareness and education are key to driving lasting change and safeguarding lives on our roads."