The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has established a special unit to ensure safety of motorists and pedestrians across all national roads.

In a statement on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, KeNHA noted that the unit will be manadated with clearing and removing obstacles blocking roads - compromising the safety of Kenyans. The teams will also be tasked with moving vehicles stalled along the highways.

"The Authority will endeavor to install signs where safe parking on the highways is available," the statement read in part.

KeNHA noted that parking or obstruction by motor vehicles is prohibited under Section 53 of the Traffic Act, Cap. 403 and hence such vehicles shall be subject to prosecution when impounded. 

"The public is urged to call the Toll Free Line: 0800-211-244, which is operational on a 24-hour basis to report any incident on the road which has the potential of compromising public safety," the statement read.

The move by KeNHA follows a series of incidents on Kenyan roads ocassioned by both natural and human factors.

Flood waters and mudslides have caused obstruction and damage along a number of roads across the country, resulting in temporary closure - pending reconstruction.

On Tuesday, April 30, KeNHA announced the temporary closure of the Embu - Meru highway after a bridge around the Ena Area was damaged. The agency also announced the closure of the Maai Mahiu - Narok road after flash floods deposited debris over a one kilometer stretch in Suswa.

The Magadi - Oletepesi Road is also closed following heavy rainfall in the area.