UK-based charity FIA Foundation has invested USD 25,000 (Sh3.2 million) at Kayole One Primary School in Nairobi, to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce road traffic injuries.
The densely populated public school, bordered by three busy roads, has tragically witnessed two students involved in road traffic accidents, one of which was fatal.
Among other implemented improvements are footpaths, zebra crossings, speed humps, and clear signage, all designed to ensure that students, many of whom walk to school, can do so safely.
"We believe this project is a demonstration of what can be achieved through collaboration, and we hope it will inspire further action across the continent," said Aggie Krasnolucka, the programs director at FIF Foundation during the unveiling ceremony.
She noted Africa faces the biggest challenge when it comes to road safety, with children being the most vulnerable.
Kayole One Primary School which has a population of 3,856 learners is surrounded by Spine Road, Kayole One Road and Tushauriane Road, making the learners vulnerable to road accidents.
The Foundation has collaborated with AA Kenya, NGO-Amend and ASIRT Kenya to install the crucial pedestrian infrastructure around the school that includes a 400-meter stretch of pedestrian walkway.
"We identified the risk areas and black spots, then worked with partners to develop targeted safety interventions. These collaborations are key to achieving sustainable road safety improvements," Simon Kalolo, Amend country manager for Tanzania.
He noted to facilitate accessibility and continuity, the team had put slabs, handrails to support especially children and installed the pedestrian walkways separate pedestrians from motorists.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2023, road crashes kill approximately 1.19 million people worldwide each year and Between 20 and 50 million more people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many incurring a disability.
The data shows road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged 5-29 years.
According to statistics from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), pedestrians continue to account for a significant share of road fatalities. Between January and August 27, 2024, road accidents claimed 3,056 lives, with 1,177 of those being pedestrians.
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Mr Kalolo noted the Kayole One Primary project is part of a broader collaboration with other partners implemented in over 10 cities across Africa.
In Kenya, the team worked with local authorities, such as the Kenya Urban Road Authority (KURA), the NTSA and the Traffic Police to complement existing government efforts to improve road safety.
