‘Arrive alive’ – NACADA urges party-goers to keep roads safe this holiday
By Valerian Khakayi, December 23, 2025The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has urged Kenyans to prioritise road safety and responsible celebrations.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, the agency warns that roads become significantly more dangerous during the holidays, with a noticeable spike in accidents, many of which are preventable.
According to NACADA, road accidents surge during the festive season, with impaired driving often cited as the cause.
“The festive statistics are grim for a reason. Road accidents surge during celebrations, and impaired driving is often the cause. This isn’t just about you behind the wheel. It’s about every family on the road. Celebrate the season. Protect lives. Drive sober,” the NACADA statement reads.
“Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs isn’t a “mistake” it’s a choice that gambles with lives. It impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and turns a vehicle into a weapon.This choice doesn’t just affect the driver; it risks passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians, entire families dreaming of their own celebrations.”
In addition, NACADA emphasised the true spirit of the festive season is responsibility, ensuring that the only thing that rises this season is collective joy, not tragedy, adding that the festive season travel narrative should go from risk to responsibility.
“Let’s Change the Festive Season Narrative: From Risk to Responsibility,” NACADA’s statement reads.
“As we deck the halls and prepare for joy, a sobering reality checks in: our roads become significantly more dangerous during the festive season. The heartbreaking spike in accidents is a trend we have the power to reverse.”
The agency further encouraged Kenyans to adopt “Arrive Alive” as a holiday mantra, sharing the message with loved ones and promoting responsible behaviour on the roads
“Let’s make “Arrive Alive” our shared holiday mantra. Share this message, talk to your loved ones, and let’s commit to keeping our roads safe. Together, we can ensure the only thing that rises this season is our collective joy,” NACADA added.
Safer guidelines
NACADA also outlined simple steps for making the festive season safer.
“Responsibility is the true spirit of the season. Here’s how we can all contribute: If You Drive: Your commitment to sobriety behind the wheel is the ultimate gift of safety. Not a single drop. Not a single risk,”NACADA outlined.
“If You Celebrate: Plan your ride before the party. Designate a sober hero, book a cab, or arrange to stay over. It’s a simple plan that saves lives. If You Care: Speak up. If you see someone about to drive impaired, offer an alternative. It’s an act of courage and care.”