Holiday Horror on Kenyan Roads: Parents Warned as Accidents Involving Children Surge
By Irene Jambi
The National Parents Association (NPA) has raised serious concern over the alarming rise in road accidents reported across the country during this holiday weekend, many of which involve school-going children.
In a statement issued today, the National Chairman of the Association, Silas David Obuhatsa, called on parents and guardians to take urgent and proactive steps to safeguard their children during the school holiday period.
Mr. Obuhatsa noted that while school holidays offer a valuable opportunity for families to bond and engage more closely with their children, the period has increasingly been overshadowed by tragic road incidents. He emphasized that children are particularly vulnerable as pedestrians, passengers, and cyclists.
“The safety of our children must remain a top priority. Parents cannot afford to relax supervision during this period,” he stated.The NPA is urging parents and guardians to take the following measures:
Educate children on basic road safety practices, including proper road-crossing techniques and the use of designated pedestrian pathways.
Closely monitor children’s movements to minimize exposure to high-risk environments.
Encourage responsible behavior when using bicycles, motorcycles, and public transport.
Collaborate with community leaders and local authorities to advocate for safer road conditions.
At the same time, the Association has called on motorists to exercise heightened caution, particularly in residential areas and zones frequented by children.
Drivers are urged to strictly observe traffic regulations, avoid over-speeding, and remain vigilant at all times.
The NPA further appealed to relevant government agencies to intensify road safety awareness campaigns and enhance enforcement of traffic laws to curb the rising trend of accidents.
“Parents remain the first line of protection for their children. Let us all take collective responsibility to ensure that our children are safe, secure, and protected during this holiday season,” Mr. Obuhatsa concluded.
