The Kenya National Highways Authority has raised concern over the rising number of pedestrians risking their lives by crossing busy highways at undesignated points, even where footbridges have been constructed specifically for their safety.

In a statement shared on X, the authority warned that while some pedestrians may succeed in dodging fast-moving vehicles, many others end up seriously injured or dead — a tragedy that can be avoided by simply using footbridges.

“Maybe you are in a hurry or the bridge seemed too far. But here is the truth: that shortcut can become a lifespan cut short. Every day, pedestrians risk their lives by dashing across the highway. Some make it, some don’t,” the post read.

KeNHA urged the public to choose safety over shortcuts, warning that the continued disregard for footbridges is contributing to Kenya’s high number of road fatalities.

The authority highlighted that it is not only dangerous for the pedestrian but also puts pressure on drivers, who are often forced to make sudden moves to avoid collisions.

The agency referenced Chapter 403 of the Traffic Act, which prohibits actions that obstruct drivers or compromise road safety.

The law states that anyone who breaks these provisions risks a jail term of up to three months or a fine of not more than Sh30,000. Repeat offenders can face imprisonment for up to six months.

Although the Act does not directly ban pedestrians from crossing highways, it includes sections that stress the need for caution and responsible behaviour on the road.

Section 47, which focuses on reckless driving, also touches on instances where the actions of others  including pedestrians , can lead to dangerous situations.

“Any person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road shall be guilty of an offence,” the law reads. Courts are also allowed to issue instant fines ranging from Sh500 to Sh2,000 depending on the circumstances of each case.

KeNHA noted that the law often places fault on drivers in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, even when it is the pedestrian who acted carelessly. For this reason, the agency warned Kenyans not to assume they are protected by law when they ignore basic road safety measures.

In addition, KeNHA cautioned traders against turning footbridges into market stalls, noting that the practice blocks free movement and creates conditions that can lead to accidents, theft, or even stampedes.

“Footbridges are meant for pedestrian safety. Blocking them causes pickpocketing, accidents, and even stampedes,” it stated.

According to annual data by the National Transport and Safety Authority, many road injuries and deaths are linked to the failure to use footbridges.

In 2024 alone, Kenya recorded 4,748 road crash deaths, with pedestrians accounting for 1,177 of them — a 15 per cent increase from the same period in 2023.

Figures from January to March 2025 show that 1,139 lives were lost in road crashes. Out of these, 420 were pedestrians, followed by 301 motorcyclists.

“These numbers don’t have to remain this way. With individual responsibility, we can turn these numbers around. Let’s choose safety over shortcuts – use the footbridge, save a life,” KeNHA appealed.