Newly available crash data suggests an improvement in road safety in Kenya. In the period from January 1st to May 14th 2018, there were 1,095 traffic incidents, compared with 1,139 for the same period in 2017. The number of people being killed or seriously injured also dropped to 4,193, compared with 4,676 for the same period in the previous year. The figures were released by Kenya’s National Transport and Safety Authority, which said that primary factors involved in crashes included driving under the influence, speeding and distracted driving.
Pedestrians are at particular risk in Kenya, accounting for the highest percentage of road deaths. Unsurprisingly, Kenya’s capital Nairobi is the centre for the most crashes, deaths and injuries, due both to its high population and chronic traffic problems. Strathmore University and the University of Southampton will carry out a two-year research project working together, with the results being used to help develop a new road safety strategy.
