The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a strong advisory urging pedestrians to refrain from using mobile phones or wearing headphones while crossing roads. The authority warns that such distractions significantly contribute to avoidable road accidents and fatalities.

NTSA emphasized the importance of staying alert by keeping heads up, paying close attention to traffic, and using designated crossing points to enhance pedestrian safety. "Distractions can wait; your life can't. Avoid using phones or wearing headphones while crossing the road. Keep your head up, stay aware, and use safe designated crossing points," the authority stated.

Enforcement and Public Education Efforts Intensify in Nairobi

In a recent statement, NTSA Assistant Director Brenda Sawe disclosed that since July 20, 250 pedestrians in Nairobi have been arrested for failing to use footbridges and official crossing points. These enforcement operations are part of the #StepsToZeroPedestrianDeaths campaign, a collaborative effort between NTSA, the National Police Service, and Nairobi City County.

Recent crackdowns include:

  • July 22: Arrest of 22 pedestrians crossing Allsops section of Thika Road instead of the footbridge.
  • Subsequent operation at Buruburu Interchange leading to 35 arrests for crossing highways at undesignated spots.
  • July 24: 45 pedestrians arrested near Nyayo Stadium footbridge for similar violations.

Pedestrian Safety Remains a Critical Concern

NTSA reports that pedestrians constitute the largest group involved in fatal road crashes, accounting for 38% of all road traffic deaths recorded by June 30, 2026. The authority highlights that distracted walking—such as texting, calling, or listening to music through headphones—impairs pedestrians' ability to detect oncoming vehicles and traffic signals.

Road accidents continue to impose significant human and economic costs, estimated at 5% of Kenya's GDP annually. NTSA calls for collective responsibility among all road users to enhance safety.

"Pedestrian compliance is vital. Using available footbridges and designated crossing points can save lives," NTSA concluded.