Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has unveiled plans to mandate the inclusion of non-motorised transport (NMT) corridors in all major city road construction projects.
Speaking at the 27th World Road Congress held in Prague, Czech Republic, Murkomen outlined the country’s commitment to adopting a national transport policy to facilitate this transformation.
“As a nation, we are on the verge of finalizing our national transport policy, which is set to be approved by parliament in the near future,” Murkomen announced.
This policy underscores Kenya’s dedication to addressing the challenges posed by urban congestion, pollution, and the increasing demand for sustainable transportation options.
He further revealed that parliament is actively working on regulations that will make it compulsory for all forthcoming road projects within urban areas to accommodate NMT infrastructure. These regulations aim to create a safer and more accessible urban environment for pedestrians and cyclists, reducing their reliance on motorized vehicles.
The move towards NMT infrastructure is a part of Kenya’s broader vision for sustainable urban development. It not only promotes cleaner, more efficient transportation but also enhances public health and quality of life. By encouraging walking and cycling, the government aims to reduce air pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate traffic congestion.
“These regulations will encompass various NMT elements, including dedicated cycling lanes, ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists have safe and accessible spaces within the urban transport network,” Murkomen stated. By creating designated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, the government seeks to make NMT a more appealing and practical choice for daily commuting, promoting healthier lifestyles and contributing to reduced traffic-related accidents.
“Parliament is in the process of introducing a private members bill to enforce the integration of non-motorised transport features as a mandatory requirement for all future road constructions within urban areas,” Murkomen reiterated. This legislative effort demonstrates Kenya’s strong commitment to the sustainable transformation of its cities and underscores the importance of NMT in achieving these goals.
The Transport Cabinet Secretary also emphasized that road agencies are already taking steps to redesign existing roads wherever possible to incorporate NMT infrastructure. The increasing competition for road space between cyclists and pedestrians on one hand and motorbikes on the other underscores the urgency of this transition. Adapting existing road infrastructure is a crucial aspect of this initiative, ensuring that NMT users can enjoy safe and efficient pathways.
Furthermore, the government’s commitment extends to constructing cycling bridges in select areas of major cities, thus creating additional opportunities for non-motorised transport users. These cycling bridges will not only improve connectivity for cyclists but also promote a sense of safety and convenience, further encouraging their use.
To ensure compliance with these new measures, strict penalties will be imposed on those who violate the use of cycling and walking paths. This approach aims to foster a culture of respect and adherence to the new NMT infrastructure, making it a practical and viable choice for daily commuting.
Beyond these specific developments, the 27th World Road Congress will address broader topics related to mobility and infrastructure. Experts will delve into subjects such as electromobility, autonomous vehicles, and the transportation industry’s growing focus on achieving carbon neutrality. These discussions highlight Kenya’s determination to stay at the forefront of sustainable transportation solutions, aligning with global efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change.
The congress aims to actively engage with the general public, with a particular emphasis on involving and raising awareness among the youth about the importance of safe and sustainable urban transport solutions. This outreach seeks to empower the next generation of Kenyan citizens to take an active role in shaping the future of their cities by prioritizing NMT and environmentally responsible transportation options.
Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has unveiled plans to mandate the inclusion of non-motorised transport (NMT) corridors in all major city road construction projects.
Speaking at the 27th World Road Congress held in Prague, Czech Republic, Murkomen outlined the country’s commitment to adopting a national transport policy to facilitate this transformation.
“As a nation, we are on the verge of finalizing our national transport policy, which is set to be approved by parliament in the near future,” Murkomen announced.
This policy underscores Kenya’s dedication to addressing the challenges posed by urban congestion, pollution, and the increasing demand for sustainable transportation options.
He further revealed that parliament is actively working on regulations that will make it compulsory for all forthcoming road projects within urban areas to accommodate NMT infrastructure. These regulations aim to create a safer and more accessible urban environment for pedestrians and cyclists, reducing their reliance on motorized vehicles.
The move towards NMT infrastructure is a part of Kenya’s broader vision for sustainable urban development. It not only promotes cleaner, more efficient transportation but also enhances public health and quality of life. By encouraging walking and cycling, the government aims to reduce air pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate traffic congestion.
“These regulations will encompass various NMT elements, including dedicated cycling lanes, ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists have safe and accessible spaces within the urban transport network,” Murkomen stated. By creating designated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, the government seeks to make NMT a more appealing and practical choice for daily commuting, promoting healthier lifestyles and contributing to reduced traffic-related accidents.
“Parliament is in the process of introducing a private members bill to enforce the integration of non-motorised transport features as a mandatory requirement for all future road constructions within urban areas,” Murkomen reiterated. This legislative effort demonstrates Kenya’s strong commitment to the sustainable transformation of its cities and underscores the importance of NMT in achieving these goals.
The Transport Cabinet Secretary also emphasized that road agencies are already taking steps to redesign existing roads wherever possible to incorporate NMT infrastructure. The increasing competition for road space between cyclists and pedestrians on one hand and motorbikes on the other underscores the urgency of this transition. Adapting existing road infrastructure is a crucial aspect of this initiative, ensuring that NMT users can enjoy safe and efficient pathways.
Furthermore, the government’s commitment extends to constructing cycling bridges in select areas of major cities, thus creating additional opportunities for non-motorised transport users. These cycling bridges will not only improve connectivity for cyclists but also promote a sense of safety and convenience, further encouraging their use.
To ensure compliance with these new measures, strict penalties will be imposed on those who violate the use of cycling and walking paths. This approach aims to foster a culture of respect and adherence to the new NMT infrastructure, making it a practical and viable choice for daily commuting.
Beyond these specific developments, the 27th World Road Congress will address broader topics related to mobility and infrastructure. Experts will delve into subjects such as electromobility, autonomous vehicles, and the transportation industry’s growing focus on achieving carbon neutrality. These discussions highlight Kenya’s determination to stay at the forefront of sustainable transportation solutions, aligning with global efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change.
The congress aims to actively engage with the general public, with a particular emphasis on involving and raising awareness among the youth about the importance of safe and sustainable urban transport solutions. This outreach seeks to empower the next generation of Kenyan citizens to take an active role in shaping the future of their cities by prioritizing NMT and environmentally responsible transportation options.