The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has given an update on the construction of footbridges along the Ngong Road–Karen stretch.
The move follows growing pressure from frustrated pedestrians and online users.
In a thread posted on X, user @CatzNjeri brought KURA’s attention to the issue, questioning why pedestrian footbridges were never installed during the road’s expansion.
“Where are footbridges along Ngong Road to Karen. The first thing you should construct before building any road should be footbridges,” stated the user.
Also Read: KFS Bows to Pressure After Uproar Over Construction of Luxurious Ngong Forest Hotel
KURA Responds Announcing Construction Plans
Within minutes, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) responded to the user, stating that plans were in place to begin construction of the footbridges.
Additionally, the authority indicated that it prioritized pedestrian safety on roads.
“Plans are currently underway to install footbridges as part of efforts to enhance pedestrian safety along the section,” noted KURA.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) also stepped in to clarify that the road falls under KURA’s jurisdiction, and that it was not responsible for the construction.
“The Authority seeks to clarify that the aforementioned road section is under the purview of KURA. Kindly reach out to them for any further assistance,” stated KeNHA.
Ngong Road is one of Nairobi’s busiest corridors and has long posed a hazard to pedestrians, especially school children, and residents crossing to access matatus, shops, and schools.
Despite its dual carriage expansion and modernization, no safe pedestrian crossings or footbridges were included in the initial design, forcing thousands of road users to dash across fast-moving traffic every day.
Also Read: KURA Announces Ngong Road Closure
Latest NTSA Statistics on Accidents
In an April 2025 report, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) indicated that at least 1,139 people died as a result of road crashes in Kenya between January 1 and March 31, 2025.
Pedestrians recorded the highest number of fatalities at 420, followed closely by motorcyclists with 301 deaths.
Additionally, passengers were the third most affected group, accounting for 189 fatalities, while pillion passengers recorded 130 deaths. During the same period, 83 drivers and 16 pedal cyclists also lost their lives.
According to the report, a total of 5,856 people were involved in road crashes in the first quarter of the year. Among those affected, 3,316 sustained serious injuries, while 2,693 suffered minor injuries.
The report also noted a rise in the number of motorcyclist and pillion passenger fatalities.
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