The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has rolled out a nationwide road safety campaign ahead of the August school holidays, intensifying enforcement on vehicles transporting learners and other public service vehicles.
Dubbed Operation Watoto Wafike Salama, the campaign will be implemented in collaboration with the National Police Service, County Transport and Safety Committees and other road safety stakeholders to promote safer travel during the holiday period.
The initiative comes as thousands of learners prepare to travel home, a period that traditionally records increased traffic volumes and a heightened risk of road crashes involving school-going children.
“As schools across the country prepare for the August holidays, the Authority reminds all road users, parents, guardians, school bus operators and transporters of the critical need to prioritise the safety of our children,” NTSA said.
Multi-agency crackdown on unsafe vehicles
NTSA said enforcement teams will conduct patrols, compliance checks and spot inspections along major highways and other transport corridors across the country.
The operation will focus on school buses, vans and other passenger vehicles to ensure they comply with mandatory road safety requirements before transporting learners.
Inspectors will examine vehicle roadworthiness, including tyres, brakes, lights, seat belts and speed limiters, while also verifying that operators possess valid driving licences, PSV badges, Road Service Licences and vehicle inspection certificates.
Crackdown targets traffic offences
The authority said motorists found violating traffic regulations will face enforcement action throughout the campaign.
Offences targeted during the operation include speeding, overloading, driving under the influence of alcohol, driver fatigue and other practices that endanger passengers.
“Strict enforcement against speeding, overloading, drunk driving, driver fatigue and other road safety violations” will be undertaken during the campaign, NTSA said.
The authority noted that the inspections are intended to reduce crashes caused by unsafe vehicles, reckless driving and failure to comply with transport regulations.
Public urged to support campaign
NTSA has appealed to parents, transport operators and the public to play an active role in protecting children during the holiday travel period.
The authority encouraged Kenyans to report unsafe driving practices, overloaded vehicles and other incidents that could place learners at risk through its customer service platforms, police emergency channels and county transport safety offices.
“The Authority urges members of the public to support these efforts by reporting any incidents or unsafe practices that put children at risk,” NTSA said.
Focus on safe holiday travel
NTSA also advised motorists to observe traffic laws, avoid speeding, ensure passengers wear seat belts and take regular breaks during long-distance journeys.
The authority said Operation Watoto Wafike Salama is aimed at improving compliance with road safety regulations, enhancing school transport safety and ensuring learners travel safely to and from their homes during the August holidays.
