The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced the intensification of its #WatotoWafikeSalama campaign to enhance the safety of children as schools close across the country.
In a statement shared on their X (Formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, the Authority noted that thousands of children will be traveling home over the coming weeks and stressed the collective responsibility of all road users to ensure their safe journeys.
“With schools set to close in the coming weeks, children across the country will be eagerly heading home,” NTSA stated.
“The Authority, in partnership with various stakeholders, will heighten Operation #WatotoWafikeSalama Campaign through road safety education, intensifying patrols and enforcement initiatives along major transport corridors.”
NTSA emphasized that the ongoing operation will combine education, enforcement, and collaboration with key partners in the transport and security sectors, including the National Police Service, Ministry of Interior, and Ministry of Education.
This, NTSA explained, will involve reinforcing compliance checks, especially among public service vehicles (PSVs) transporting learners, and ensuring adherence to safety standards such as proper seatbelt use and vehicle maintenance.
The authority expressed concern over the wet weather conditions currently being experienced in several parts of the country, noting that slippery roads and reduced visibility have increased the risk of road crashes.
It called on drivers to avoid flooded roads entirely and follow the “Turn around, don’t drown” principle and ensure children use their seatbelts during transit.
Drivers are also advised to ensure vehicle safety by regularly inspecting tires, brakes, wipers, and lights for wet-weather performance.