By Nyang’au Araka
Bodaboda riders continue to be among the most vulnerable road users in Kisii region, according to the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KURRA).
The authority’s Kisii Regional Director, Walter Nyariki said motorcycles lead in the number of fatal accidents, and leave many with physical injuries that keep them hospitalised for a long time.
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Nyariki said most accidents in the county occur along the Kisii-Nyatieko-Kegogi Road.
He asked riders to get formal training and be issued with riding licences by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
“Also ensure your vehicle or motorcycle is roadworthy and you are sober while on the road,” he said.
Speaking during the World Day of Rememberance of Traffic Victims at Kegogi market, Nyariki asked drivers and riders to always observe traffic rules and regulations.
Nyariki said there was need for sustained sensitisation for Kenyans to enhance security on roads.
“We all have a responsibility to contribute towards reduction of road accidents,” Eng. Nyariki said.
Bodaboda riders were asked not to burn vehicles once one of their own gets involved in an accident.
Police said cases of bodaboda riders turning into a lynch mob had been reported in various towns, including Kisii.
Kisii Central Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Rachel Zogona said it was wrong for anyone to revenge when an accident occurs.
“We ask the riders to report to the police when accident occurs,” she said.
Zogona said attacking drivers and burning vehicles interferes with investigations.
“I think the riders vent their anger that way because most of them don’t have riding licences or insurance for their motorcycles,” Zogona said.
She said police sensitisation is key to reducing the number of accidents on roads.
Zogona said accidents usually increase during the rainy season and at night when visibility is compromised.
Gerald Obuyo, a representative of the NTSA in Kisii road safety is achieved through three pillars; education and awareness creation, road engineering and enforcement of traffic rules and regulations.
“For example, a rider should not carry more than one pillion. Also, the rider and the pillion should wear helmets,” Oyubo said.
Apart from planting trees and participating in a walk in Kisii Town, the attendees lit candles at one of the blackspots along Kisii- Kegogi Road.
A public sensitisation meeting was also held at Kegogi Market.
More than half of all road traffic deaths are among vulnerable road users: pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, according to the United Nations (UN) report.
Pedestrians, cyclists, and riders of motorized 2- and 3-wheelers and their passengers are collectively known as “vulnerable road users”.
