The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a safety alert urging motorists and road users to remain vigilant as schools prepare to close in the coming weeks, warning that thousands of children will soon be travelling home for the holidays.
In a statement, the agency cautioned that the end-of-term period often witnesses heightened travel activity and increased road risks, especially involving school transport and public service vehicles.
To enhance safety, NTSA announced that it will scale up its #WatotoWafikeSalama (Let the Children Arrive Safely) campaign, focusing on road safety education, intensified patrols, and strict enforcement along major highways and transport corridors.
“With schools set to close in the coming weeks, the safety of learners travelling home must be given top priority,” the Authority said. “Together with our partners, we are strengthening Operation #WatotoWafikeSalama through increased awareness and enforcement initiatives.”
The agency also raised concern over the ongoing rainy season, noting that slippery roads, poor visibility, and flash floods are making travel conditions more dangerous. It called on motorists to slow down, keep a safe distance, and completely avoid flooded routes in line with the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” safety principle.
NTSA further emphasized the importance of ensuring that all vehicles are roadworthy, with particular attention to tires, brakes, wipers, and lights. Drivers were also reminded to ensure that children wear seatbelts at all times.
“The safety of our children is a shared responsibility. Every parent, motorist, and operator must play their part to guarantee that learners get home safely,” the statement added.
The warning follows a concerning rise in accidents during previous school closing periods, prompting NTSA to step up monitoring of school transport and public service vehicles nationwide.
