The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has initiated a comprehensive enforcement campaign targeting long-distance vehicles on key Kenyan highways. The crackdown, part of the #UsalamaBarabarani (Road Safety) initiative, involves joint security teams deployed simultaneously across seven counties.
Scope of Operations
- In Bungoma County, teams operated along the Bungoma-Malaba Road at Sikata.
- Kakamega regional officers conducted checks on the Eldoret-Webuye Road near Lumakanda.
- Garissa bus station witnessed ongoing safety compliance inspections on long-distance buses.
- In Kisii, enforcement took place at Gesonso along the Kisii-Migori Highway.
- Nyeri County saw deployments at King'ong'o junction on the Nyeri-Nanyuki Highway.
- At Kigio on the Nakuru-Nairobi Highway, Nakuru regional teams collaborated with Gilgil Police Station focusing on vehicle safety and speed limiter checks.
- Kisumu regional officers carried out inspections at Kombewa along the Kisian-Bondo road.
Public Reactions and Concerns
The crackdown has sparked debate on social media, with some Kenyans questioning the focus and effectiveness of the operations. Critics pointed to the continued operation of unroadworthy 14-seater matatus within Nairobi and the disregard for reckless boda boda riders and handcart operators violating traffic rules.
Additional concerns included the placement and safety of some roadblocks, noting insufficient signage and road markings. Motorists also highlighted poor road conditions on the Eldoret-Nakuru stretch of the A104 highway, citing numerous potholes that remain unaddressed.
As of now, NTSA has not issued a public response to these concerns.
