CS Chirchir reveals reasons behind deadly August accidents
The Ministry of Roads and Transport has released findings from the Crash Investigation Reports following the recent deadly highway accidents across Kenya.
The reports, published on Friday, August 22, 2025, by Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis Chirchir, said the ministry found three major factors have contributed to the spike in road fatalities: road infrastructure, driver behaviour, and the mechanical condition of vehicles.
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“Our findings underscore that poorly maintained roads, reckless driving, and vehicle defects remain the leading causes of fatalities,” Davis Chirchir said
Chirchir further explained, “Treatment and improvement of hazardous road sections is a priority. We are working with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to ensure vehicles comply with KS 372:2019 standards through strict inspection processes.”
School reopening measures
With schools reopening nationwide, the ministry has urged motorists to exercise extra caution.
“Drivers and motorcyclists must ensure their vehicles are well maintained, appropriately licensed, and that they drive slowly around educational institutions,” Chirchir noted.
He also reminded pedestrians, “Your safety must come first. Always use designated crossings, avoid distractions such as phones, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing the road.”
The ministry is also focusing on public awareness campaigns to promote safer driving practices. “Continued efforts in road user education and law enforcement are key to reducing fatalities and preventing accidents,” Chirchir added, emphasising that every stakeholder has a role to play.
Commitment to safer roads
The Cabinet Secretary concluded by pledging the government’s ongoing commitment to road safety: “We remain dedicated to working with all partners to make our roads safer for every Kenyan. Fatalities on our roads are preventable, and coordinated action is crucial to save lives.”
The statement comes amid a particularly deadly August, with traffic accidents and other incidents claiming dozens of lives in just the first weeks of the month.
Since the start of the month, Kenya has recorded a spate of fatal crashes both on the roads and in the skies that have claimed dozens of lives in just days.
Between January 1 and August 10, 2025, a total of 2,933 Kenyans have died in traffic accidents nationwide, according to the Ministry of Roads.
The carnage spiked sharply in early August, with 80 deaths recorded in just four days a surge that prompted emergency road safety audits.
Notably, on August 8 in Kisumu County, at least 25 people were killed when a bus ferrying mourners from Kakamega overturned near a roundabout and rolled into a ditch, with additional fatalities reported at hospitals.
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William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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