As schools prepare to open for the second term on Monday, over 300 school bus drivers from Kiambu County have received free road safety awareness training and medical checkups courtesy of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
The drivers, hailing from Thika, Juja, Ruiru, Gatundu North, and Gatundu South, also had their buses inspected for safety. Buses found to be faulty were directed to be repaired before the start of the term.
NTSA Central Regional Manager Kendi Mutuma led the training at Thika Technical Training Centre. Drivers underwent eyesight, blood sugar level, and blood pressure tests. The vehicles were checked for compliance with safety regulations, including safety belts, insurance covers, wheel balancing, and speed governors.
The clinic, dubbed “Usalama Barabarani Medical Camp,” brought together various learning institutions, driving schools, and other stakeholders to enhance road safety for school-going children and other road users, especially during the current rainy season.
Kendi Mutuma emphasized the importance of the initiative in reducing fatal road accidents. “Many drivers suffer from ailments unknowingly, and this camp helps them understand their health better to ensure they are fit for the road,” she said.
During the vehicle inspections, it was discovered that some drivers had tampered with speed governors and safety belts, and others were found to be overloading students, which poses a significant risk in case of accidents. “We have noted several faults on our school buses that need to be corrected before schools reopen on Monday. We have also taken our drivers through medical checkups to improve their fitness on the roads,” Kendi added. The exercise will continue in several parts of the region to enhance the safety of learners on the road.
Drivers who attended the clinic expressed their appreciation for the initiative. Julius Mburu and Lukas Kamande, among the drivers, praised the move, stating that it would help reduce accidents involving school buses in the region. They called on the NTSA to make the training a regular exercise to effectively enhance road safety.
This proactive approach by the NTSA aims to create safer road environments for school children and ensure that school bus drivers are in optimal health and their vehicles are in top condition.
By: Amos mburu
