State emphasises use of approved helmets to curb fatalities on roads

JOSEPH NG’ANG’A-KNA

Kenya is reinforcing its road safety framework through stricter enforcement of quality helmet use, in a bid to curb fatalities among vulnerable road users.

On the sidelines of the of the Working Party on General Safety Provisions (GRSG WP.29), Sessions in Geneva, the State Department for Roads Principal Secretary (PS), Eng. Joseph Mbugua, held a strategic discussion with Consultant Pierre Castaing, a member of the Experts Committee of the French Road Safety Council.

Their engagement focussed on safety helmets through the lens of Rwanda’s successful implementation model.

They underscored how the subject of helmets can serve as a practical demonstration of the real-world impact of WP.29 in Africa.

Eng. Mbugua said that Rwanda’s experience shows that when WP.29 standards can be domesticated and enforced, especially those related to protective gear such as motorcycle helmets saying that countries can achieve measurable reductions in injuries and deaths.

The PS explained that Rwanda’s coordinated approach includes compliance with UN Regulations, public awareness campaigns and strict enforcement. 

“Kenya faces similar challenges with motorcycle (boda boda) safety, where head injuries remain a leading cause of severe trauma and fatalities,” he said.

The PS said by leveraging lessons from Rwanda and aligning more closely with WP.29, helmet quality can be standardized and the circulation of substandard products can be reduced.

“Road safety outcomes can improve, especially for boda boda riders and passengers, regulatory enforcement can be strengthened, while supporting NTSA and KEBS.

He added that regional harmonization within the East African Community can be accelerated and Kenya’s automotive sector to better align with global safety benchmarks, supporting Vision 2030 and the National Road Safety Action Plan.

The discussion highlighted that WP.29 is a catalyst for saving lives through its regulations, capacity-building initiatives and global best practices.

Eng. Mbugua said Kenya’s engagement at the GRSG sessions signals its commitment to applying these global standards to local realities, ultimately protecting lives and strengthening the country’s road safety ecosystem.