The government has unveiled plans to expand four major highways and construct 13 footbridges across the country as part of a broader strategy to reduce road accidents. The move, announced through the National Road Safety Action Plan published on Tuesday, September 16, is set to be implemented over the next five years.
According to the Ministry of Transport, the highway upgrades will include the dualling of Kwa Jomvu–Mariakani, capacity enhancement of Nyali–Mtwapa–Kilifi, and upgrading of Kitale–Morpus along the Kenya–South Sudan Link Road. The Rironi–Mau Summit section connecting Nairobi to Nakuru is also earmarked for expansion, with authorities noting that the improvements are expected to significantly cut down accident cases along the busy corridor.
To address pedestrian safety, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has begun the construction of 13 footbridges along Nairobi’s Outer Ring Road, part of the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) project. The government also highlighted progress on other projects, including the dualling of Ngata Bridge in Nakuru, realignment of the Bonje area, and grade separation works at Gitaru–Rungiri. Completed works cited include improvements at Salgaa–Sachangwan and enhanced road signage at the Kinungi–Ihindu–Karai section.
Alongside road construction, the Ministry announced sweeping changes in traffic regulations. These include the use of smart speed cameras for automated enforcement, reforms in driver testing, and the introduction of the Schools Transport Regulations (2025). The government also confirmed the development of the Traffic (Drink Driving) Regulations, 2025, aimed at curbing accidents caused by intoxicated drivers.
Additionally, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has introduced new safety regulations for imported used vehicles, targeting compliance with international standards. Officials noted that the multi-pronged approach combines infrastructure upgrades, stricter enforcement, and improved vehicle safety standards to reduce fatalities on Kenyan roads.
