The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) have teamed up to sensitize residents of Tharaka Nithi County on road safety through a road caravan scheduled to take place from 13th- 17th November, 2024.
Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner, David Gitonga, while speaking at at Kathwana while flagging off the 5-day event officially noted many Kenyans had lost their loved ones to road accidents and highlighted the need to ensure all key stakeholders unite to bring an end to cases of road carnage.
The County Commissioner noted that the County had been selected to host the annual World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims scheduled to take place on 17th November at Muthambi DCC grounds.
“We must ensure road safety measures are followed. We are asking motorists not to carry excess while also urging the passengers to use safety belts and report cases of speed reckless driving. We have teamed up with NTSA to ensure we bring an end to road accidents”, he said.
“Every year we celebrate World Day of Remembrance. This year, as a county we will host the national celebrations on 17th November at Muthambi DCC’s office which has started today with the launch of the week-long caravan across different part of the county”, he added.
NTSA Regional Manager Ms Doris Sabaya in her remarks asked passengers to be responsible citizens by not boarding excessive carrying vehicles and ensure the drivers are sober enough to drive.
Ms. Sabaya also reminded drivers to be mindful of the driving state and take breaks where necessary since fatigue was also a key reason for accidents on Kenyan roads.
“Safety is our responsibility as citizens. Let us use reflectors and helmets when boarding bodabodas. We also urge passenger’s not to board PSVs which are already full and ensure drivers drive within the required speed limit. Drivers should also be reminded that they can rest in case they feel tired to avoid accidents”, she said.
NACADA, Regional Manager, Amos Warui noted drug and substance abuse was also a major cause of road accidents in Kenya, asking motorists and road users to be sober on the roads to avert accidents. He asked those affected by alcohol and substance abuse to seek assistance through 1192 toll free line.
Sub-County Police Commander Joseph Mutiiria who spoke on behalf of the County Police Commander asked motorists and pedestrians to be careful now that the country was headed towards the festive season that has witnessed many accidents in the past.
“We urge every road user to use the set guidelines and follow traffic rules. We will continue sensitizing the public on road safety measures. We also ask passengers to check the roadworthiness of the vehicle they are using before embarking on any journey”, he said.
By David Mutwiri and Blaise Gitonga