NTSA's call for enhanced road safety as schools re-open

The National Transport and Safety Authority has urged all motorists to ensure the safety of school-going children as the new academic calendar begins. 

"The Back to School season in the previous years has recorded violations leading to both fatal and serious injuries among school children and it is the responsibility of motorists to prevent these unfortunate incidences," says NTSA in a statement released on Monday, Jan. 23. 

"We urge parents to use safe modes of transport to ferry children to and from school. Only compliant and roadworthy vehicles should be used." 

The Authority says parents and guardians can verify details of school buses toll-free using the NTSA Mobile App, which is available on Google Play Store. The accessible information includes registered name of the Sacco/Company/Institution, inspection status, licensed route, and validity of the Road Service Licence. 

"It is key to verify the information before the children board the vehicle. PSV operators and school management have the responsibility of ensuring drivers and conductors tasked with carrying children are qualified and with valid badges," adds NTSA. 

The Authority has also called upon all drivers and Boda Boda riders operating within school zones to adhere to the 30kph speed limit in line with the requirements of the law.

"Children are vulnerable road users due to their size and limitations in vision and hearing, it is therefore prudent for all road users to prioritize their safety."

Through its flagship Usalama Barabarani Programme supported by the European Union, NTSA continues to intensify sensitization on road safety awareness and education.

Thousands of schools across the country have benefited from the ongoing Lookout, Tuvuke Salama road safety campaign in partnership with corporates including Vivo Energy, CFAO Kenya in which reflective lolipop stop signs and reflective bag covers have been issued to schools along the high-risk roads.

Plans are also underway to incorporate road safety into the school curriculum.