The Acting Director General of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Luka Kimeli, has called on transporters to adhere strictly to axle load limits, warning that overloading vehicles continues to threaten the country’s road infrastructure.

During a visit to the Webuye Weighbridge along the Eldoret-Malaba Road, Kimeli oversaw Axle Load Control operations, a key measure aimed at safeguarding Kenya’s highways from accelerated wear and damage.

“We urge all transporters to comply with axle load limits to ensure a sustainable road infrastructure network across the country,” the authority said in a statement posted on its official X account on Sunday, August 24, 2025

The Eldoret-Malaba Road, a major trade corridor linking western Kenya to neighbouring countries, carries a significant volume of commercial traffic daily. Overloaded trucks have been identified as a leading cause of potholes, road collapses, and expensive maintenance, which not only disrupts transport but also affects economic activities along the route.

Kimeli emphasised that compliance with axle load regulations is not merely a legal requirement but a shared responsibility for the safety and longevity of Kenya’s road network.

“Every transporter has a role to play in protecting the roads that connect our communities and markets. Overloading is not only illegal; it endangers lives and increases the cost of road maintenance,” he said.

Sustainable Road Use

The Webuye Weighbridge is part of a network of monitoring stations established by KeNHA to enforce axle load compliance nationwide. These weighbridges are designed to inspect and regulate trucks, ensuring they operate within legal load limits, thereby preventing structural damage and extending the lifespan of national roads.

Authorities have also highlighted the economic implications of road damage caused by overloading. Frequent repairs and rehabilitation work drain public resources that could otherwise be directed toward new infrastructure projects. By enforcing axle load limits, KeNHA aims to create a more sustainable system that balances commerce with road safety.

Transporters, industry players, and motorists have been urged to see axle load compliance as a key part of wider efforts to safeguard Kenya’s infrastructure, enhance road safety, and ensure the smooth flow of goods and people.

“Roads are national assets. Protecting them requires cooperation from everyone who uses them,” the statement concluded.