As thousands of pupils prepare to head home for the holidays later this month, Kenya’s road safety agency has issued a fresh warning to motorists: slow down, stay alert, and keep the children safe.
In a statement on Tuesday, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) unveiled five key directives for drivers during the school closure period, which begins on October 24, coinciding with the onset of national examinations and the rainy season.
The agency also relaunched its Operation Watoto Wafike Salama campaign, aimed at ensuring pupils travel home safely amid slippery roads and poor visibility caused by ongoing rains.
“The Authority, in partnership with various stakeholders, will heighten the Operation Watoto Wafike Salama campaign through road safety education, intensified patrols, and enforcement initiatives along major transport corridors,” NTSA said.
Wet Roads, Rising Risks
The agency warned that wet weather in many parts of the country had made roads dangerous, with rain reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents.
“We note that the wet weather conditions currently experienced in several parts of the country are making roads slippery and reducing visibility, posing further risks,” the statement read.
To curb potential accidents, NTSA outlined five directives for motorists, especially those ferrying schoolchildren:
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Model safe behaviour. Obey all traffic regulations and demonstrate responsible driving.
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Adjust to weather conditions. Reduce speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
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Avoid flooded roads. Follow the “Turn around, don’t drown” rule—steer clear of flooded paths and deep puddles.
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Ensure seatbelt use. Make sure every child wears a seatbelt throughout the journey.
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Maintain vehicle safety. Inspect tyres, brakes, wipers, and lights regularly to ensure they perform well in wet weather.
“The safety of children during school closures is a collective responsibility that demands action. We must all play our part to ensure children travel home safely,” NTSA said.
Schools Closing, Rains Continuing
Kenyan schools are set to close on October 24, making way for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams in November.
The timing coincides with a forecast of continued rainfall across much of the country. The Kenya Meteorological Department, in its latest update, said rain is expected between October 7 and 13 across the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Coast, and parts of western, north-eastern, and south-eastern Kenya.
As millions of children prepare to travel home, NTSA’s message is clear: vigilance on the road could be the difference between a safe journey and a tragedy.