Transporters Gang Up to Ban Probox & Other Cars From Long Distance Travel

A collage image of Kenyans boarding a Probox (left) and Toyota Noah vehicles parked in Nairobi (right).
A collage image of Kenyans boarding a Probox (left) and Toyota Noah vehicles parked in Nairobi (right).
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Road transport stakeholders have called on the government to impose a ban on Probox and other private vehicles used to ferry passengers during festivities.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, November 22, Speed Governor and Road Safety Association chairperson, Edward Gitonga, indicated that they had initiated the talks with various stakeholders.

Gitonga explained that the move was necessary given the number of accidents that have been on the rise this year.

He added that some private vehicles such as Wish and Noah were unregulated in their use for long-distance travel creating a leeway for traffic offences.

20201021-BOXRAFT-Matatu Bus Stop Sign at GPO Stage, Along Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi. Monday, October 21, 2019
20201021-BOXRAFT-Matatu Bus Stop Sign at GPO Stage, Along Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi. Monday, October 21, 2019
Kenyans.co.ke

"Many vehicles are going to be used. Some of them have not been used for a long time but because it is the festive season, they will be brought out. Let the PSVs do their work. 

"Proboxes and Noah just come during this period yet we have had incidents with these cars," he explained.

Additionally, the group called for the enforcement of speed governors for vehicles that are to be used during the festivities.

"Matatu and bus owners play a key role in matters of road safety because they are the ones who feel the pinch when their vehicles are involved in accidents. They must participate fully in all safety forums," David Kiarie added.

Other proposals that were proposed include the installation of cameras on major highways to help in the enforcement of speed limits.

If effected, Kenyans will be forced to seek alternative means of transport for the holidays given that many people have difficulties finding space in PSVs during the busy season.

According to data from the National Transport and Safety Authority, 17,550 Kenyans have been involved in accidents this year as of October 30.

In the same period, 3,924 lost their lives while 8,214 sustained injuries.

Multiple car accident in a Rift Valley Highway on Sunday, September 18, 2022.
Multiple car accident in a Rift Valley Highway on Sunday, September 18, 2022.
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