The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued six critical safety tips for long-distance drivers as Kenya heads into the festive season, a period traditionally marked by increased traffic and road accidents.

In a post on X dated December 12, 2025, NTSA emphasized personal responsibility with the message: “#UsalamaBarabarani unaanza na wewe. Let’s work together to ensure the safety of all road users. #HarakatiZanguUsalamaWangu.”

The authority warned that “A momentary lapse in concentration or a split-second decision can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.”

The NTSA went ahead to list six key safety tips specifically targeted at long-distance drivers.

• Take breaks, fatigue kills
• Respect all road users
• Stick to your lane
• Remove stalled vehicles
• Don’t speed
• Never drink and drive

Rising road fatalities

NTSA’s heightened campaign comes against a grim backdrop. By December 2025, Kenya had recorded 4,458 road fatalities, an increase from 4,311 during the same period in 2024. The warnings follow a series of fatal crashes in early December.

On December 7, a head-on collision between a Kinatwa Sacco matatu and a trailer on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway near Voi claimed multiple lives. NTSA confirmed fatalities and injuries, stating:

“A tragic road crash involving a public service vehicle and a commercial vehicle has occurred on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. Sadly, fatalities have been recorded, and several passengers have sustained injuries.”

Two days earlier, on December 5, four people died in Busia County when a Sugar Zone Sacco matatu overturned after a tyre burst. These incidents have highlighted the dangers of over-speeding, fatigue, and poor vehicle maintenance, which NTSA has consistently identified as leading causes of crashes.

Anti-drunk driving campaign

A day before sharing the six safety tips, on December 11, NTSA posted a stark anti-drunk driving message accompanied by an image of a hand holding a beer bottle while gripping a steering wheel.

“Alcohol slows your reaction time, impairs your judgement, and puts every road user at risk.” The authority urged motorists to “Get a sober driver, use a taxi, or wait until you’re fully sober before getting behind the wheel.”

With increased travel expected during the festive season, NTSA is calling on all drivers, especially long-distance PSV and commercial vehicle operators, to strictly observe the six safety tips and exercise maximum caution on the roads.