The Kenya Red Cross has raised fresh concern over the rising number of road traffic deaths, revealing that 23 crashes have claimed 31 lives and left 75 people seriously injured in the first 13 days of August alone.
In a statement issued Thursday, August 13, 2026, the humanitarian agency said speeding, dangerous overtaking and driver fatigue remain among the leading causes of the deadly crashes being recorded across major highways and urban roads.
“Speeding, dangerous overtaking and fatigue continue to cost lives on our highways,” the Red Cross said, urging motorists to slow down and exercise greater caution during the busy August travel period.
The warning comes amid a series of serious accidents reported in recent days. On Monday, several people were seriously injured after a multiple-vehicle collision near Kijabe along the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway, involving a matatu and other vehicles.
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The crash caused major traffic disruption and renewed concern over safety on one of the country’s busiest transport corridors.
The August school holiday has also increased traffic volumes on highways as learners and families travel across the country.
Last month, two school buses carrying more than 100 pupils were involved in a collision in West Pokot, leaving several people injured and drawing attention to the risks associated with school transport.
The Red Cross said the crisis is not limited to highways. It is now pushing for 30 km/h speed limits around schools, markets and residential areas to better protect pedestrians, children, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.
“Lower speeds matter too. We are advocating for 30 km/h limits around schools, markets and residential areas to better protect vulnerable road users,” the agency said.
The latest figures add to a worrying national trend. According to data released by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), 2,150 people were killed on Kenyan roads in the first half of 2026, an 11 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2025.
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Pedestrians accounted for the largest share of the fatalities, followed by motorcyclists.
NTSA has since intensified enforcement under the “Operation Watoto Wafike Salama” campaign ahead of the August school holiday, targeting speeding, overloading, drunk driving and driver fatigue through increased patrols and compliance checks on major roads.
Road safety experts say human behaviour continues to be the biggest contributor to crashes, with speeding, reckless overtaking, poor lane discipline and unsafe crossing points repeatedly identified as key factors behind fatal accidents.
The Red Cross appealed to drivers, public service vehicle operators, boda boda riders and pedestrians to play their part in reducing the carnage.
“Slow down. Save lives. #FikaSalama,” the agency said.
Authorities are urging the public to report dangerous driving and road emergencies through police hotlines, NTSA channels and emergency responders including the Kenya Red Cross and St John Ambulance as efforts to curb the growing toll continue.
