By D, KNA
The Londiani-Muhoroni road requires a multi-faceted approach to address both design and human factors, with the aim of making the road safer and mitigating accidents that have claimed many lives since the highway was commissioned, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) South Rift Engineer, Neema Nyaseta has said.
To enhance safety, practical measures are needed, including visible road markings, installation of traffic signboards, and improved street lighting systems along accident-prone areas.
Presenting an audit report on safety measures and challenges along the Londiani-Muhoroni road, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) South Rift Engineer, Neema Nyaseta, told a HODs meeting in Kericho this week that urgent joint sensitization campaigns by KeNHA and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) are necessary.
These campaigns would target reckless driving and alcohol use among both motorists and pedestrians crossing the highway, he noted.
Ms. Nyaseta noted that addressing these issues positively would make the road safer for commuters, motorists and pedestrians while preventing further loss of lives.
“KeNHA is committed to enhancing safe roads through innovation and optimal utilization of available resources, demonstrated in collaboration with other stakeholders such as NTSA,” said Nyaseta.
She explained that KeNHA conducts quarterly road safety audits with traffic police to identify black spots and propose mitigation measures.
According to her, the current road contractor, M/s Calibeth Holdings Limited, has been instructed to ensure the road is fully marked and equipped with appropriate signage, rumble strips, especially at Barsiele market, speed limit signs of 50 km/h, guard rails, and reflectors to promote safe driving.
“There is also a need to install speed cameras along sections of the highway, which can be done in collaboration with the Kenya Police Service,” Nyaseta added.
The Londiani-Muhoroni road, stretching 60 kilometers, links Nyanza (15 km) and the Rift Valley (45 km). It is a popular commuter and commercial route but is infamous for its high number of crashes, caused by a mix of human error, poor weather conditions, and road design challenges. Reckless driving, over speeding, alcohol-impaired driving, and jaywalking have emerged as primary causes of accidents.
The audit revealed that many crashes occur in the evening, between 1700 hours and midnight, raising serious concerns about road user safety. The report aims to evaluate the situation, identify high-risk areas, and recommend interventions to reduce accidents and fatalities.
Police data indicates that in 2024, the Kericho-Mau Summit stretch recorded 156 crashes, while Londiani-Muhoroni had 75. Pedestrian crashes along the Kericho-Mau Summit totaled 53, resulting in 101 fatalities. Along Londiani-Muhoroni, pedestrian crashes numbered 24 with 25 deaths.
Black spots along the Londiani-Muhoroni road include Kapcheplanga, Barsiele, Tunnel area, Siret, and Kahurura.
At Barsiele, heavy traffic volumes and high pedestrian activity create a dangerous environment where accidents frequently occur.
Nyaseta reiterated that coordinated efforts are essential in reducing accidents and making the Londiani-Muhoroni highway safer for all road users.