CS Chirchir's advisory to motorists, parents as schools reopen for Term 1

Transport Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport David Chirchir has issued a strong appeal to motorists, parents, and guardians to prioritise the safety of children on the roads as schools reopen for the new term.

He warned that the return of learners to school will significantly increase traffic volumes across the country, raising the risk of road accidents if caution is not observed.

In his message, the Cabinet Secretary emphasised that the reopening of schools comes with shared responsibility.

He noted that thousands of students will be travelling daily, either on foot or by vehicle, and called on all road users to act responsibly to prevent avoidable tragedies.

“As our schools reopen for the new term, I urge every Kenyan to join hands in ensuring the safety of our children on the roads,” Chirchir said.

"With thousands of students returning to school across the country, our roads will experience a surge in traffic.”

He therefore urged motorists to exercise extra caution, particularly around school zones and pedestrian crossings.

“Slow down and be alert when approaching school zones and pedestrian crossings; children may be walking and crossing unexpectedly,” he said.

Consequently, he stressed the importance of obeying all traffic regulations, stating that drivers must obey speed limits, traffic signs, and signals at all times.

Chirchir also highlighted the importance of vehicle safety while warning that poorly maintained vehicles pose a serious risk to young passengers and other road users.

“Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy; brakes, lights, tyres, and mirrors must be in good condition,” he said.

The Cabinet Secretary cautioned against overloading vehicles, especially those carrying children.

“Do not overload vehicles carrying children. Overcrowding compromises safety and increases the likelihood of accidents,” he said.

Parents and guardians were also reminded of their critical role in protecting learners.

Chirchir urged them to be careful when choosing transport options for their children.

He called on them to ensure that vehicles used to ferry learners comply with safety standards and traffic laws.

“Choose safe and compliant transport for your children,” he said while also encouraging parents to instil basic road safety habits in children from an early age.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, simple lessons can make a significant difference in preventing accidents.

“Teach children the basics of road safety; looking both ways before crossing and using designated crossings,” he said.

Chirchir underscored that road safety is a collective duty that requires cooperation from all members of society.

He stressed that protecting children should be a national priority, especially during the school term when their movement increases.

“The safety of our children is everyone’s responsibility and Kenyans must uphold traffic laws and remain mindful of one another to ensure learners travel safely each day,” he emphasized.

“Let us uphold our traffic laws, be mindful of one another, and ensure that every learner arrives safely at school and returns home at the end of the day.”

Furthermore, he encouraged members of the public to take action when they witness dangerous behavior on the roads.

The CS urged Kenyans to report reckless conduct to the relevant authorities to help prevent accidents and save lives.