The National Police Service (NPS) will deploy more police officers and intensify traffic enforcement across Kenya as schools close for the end-of-year holiday, targeting speeding, overloading and unroadworthy vehicles as learners prepare to travel home.
In a press release dated October 19, 2026, the service said it would work with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to strengthen public sensitisation and enforce traffic regulations nationwide.
School transport vehicles will also undergo thorough inspections to establish whether they comply with the required safety standards.
The NPS said the expected increase in the number of pupils and students travelling to reunite with their families could raise traffic volumes and increase the risk of road crashes. It urged motorists and other road users to exercise caution, particularly during the holiday travel period.
The enforcement drive will target speeding, unroadworthy vehicles, overloading and failure to use seat belts. Motorists have also been warned against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and using mobile phones while driving.
“The safety of all road users, especially our children, remains a top priority for the National Police Service,” the statement said.
The announcement comes as basic education institutions approach the end of the third term.
The Ministry of Education’s 2026 academic calendar, as reported by the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, sets October 23 as the closing date for the term.
National assessments and examinations are scheduled to continue after the term ends, meaning some learners will remain engaged in examination activities.
The increased movement of learners during the holiday period makes school transport safety a key concern for parents, guardians and transport operators.
The NPS has urged parents and guardians to entrust children only to reputable public service vehicles that are roadworthy.
The Roads and Transport Ministry has also pursued broader measures to strengthen transport safety.
In May 2026, the ministry presented four transport-related regulations to a parliamentary committee for scrutiny and subsequent approval. The proposed framework covered vehicle inspections, school transport, drink-driving and the operation of commercial service vehicles.
The NPS has further urged pedestrians and motorcyclists to remain vigilant and comply with traffic regulations.
The NPS urged members of the public to report reckless driving and unroadworthy vehicles to the nearest police station as authorities step up enforcement during the holiday period.
The service said the additional deployment of officers would support rigorous enforcement of traffic laws during the period and beyond.
It called on all road users to cooperate with authorities to prevent avoidable crashes and protect children and other travellers.
