In an effort to prioritize sustainable and environmentally-friendly modes of transportation, the Kenyan government has announced plans to fully adopt non-motorised transport (NMT) in road construction within major cities. Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed during the 27th World Road Congress in Prague that a national transport policy is in its final stages of approval by parliament. This policy will require all future roads to include corridors specifically designed for NMT, such as walking paths and cycling lanes. Furthermore, road agencies are currently remodeling existing roads to accommodate NMT where possible. The government also plans to construct cycling bridges in selected parts of major cities to separate cyclists and pedestrians from motorized vehicles. With these initiatives in place, Kenya is aiming to create a safer and more accessible urban transportation system for all its citizens.
Background
Kenya’s adoption of non-motorised transport in road construction is a significant development in the country’s transportation sector. The Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has announced plans to make it mandatory for all road construction within major cities to have a corridor for non-motorised transport. This move aligns with Kenya’s national transport policy, which supports the adoption of non-motorised transport in road construction. Parliament is currently working on regulations that will enforce the inclusion of non-motorised transport in all future roads in urban areas.
Importance of Non-Motorised Transport
There are several benefits of incorporating non-motorised transport in road construction. Firstly, it promotes a sustainable and environmentally-friendly transportation system by reducing the reliance on motorised vehicles, which contribute to carbon emissions and pollution. By encouraging cycling and walking, non-motorised transport helps reduce traffic congestion and improve mobility in urban areas.
Additionally, non-motorised transport promotes public health by encouraging physical activity. Cycling and walking are forms of exercise that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and help combat sedentary behavior. Furthermore, non-motorised transport enhances road safety for pedestrians and cyclists by providing dedicated spaces for them to move safely.
Current Status of Non-Motorised Transport in Kenya
Currently, Kenya faces several challenges in providing infrastructure for non-motorised transport. Dedicated cycling lanes and walking paths are lacking, leading to pedestrians and cyclists having to compete for road space with motorbikes and other vehicles. This poses risks to their safety and discourages people from choosing non-motorised modes of transportation.
Implementation of Non-Motorised Transport in Road Construction
To address the current challenges, Kenya has plans to incorporate non-motorised transport in future road constructions. This includes remodeling existing roads to accommodate cycling and walking, as well as the creation of cycling bridges in selected parts of major cities. Strict enforcement and punishment for violations of cycling and walking paths will also be implemented to ensure the safety and effectiveness of these transportation options.
Benefits of Non-Motorised Transport in Road Construction
The incorporation of non-motorised transport in road construction brings several benefits. It improves accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, providing them with safer and more convenient routes for their daily commute. Additionally, it reduces carbon emissions and environmental impact by reducing the number of motorised vehicles on the road.
Promoting a healthier lifestyle and physical activity is another advantage of non-motorised transport. By encouraging people to cycle or walk instead of using motorised vehicles, it contributes to an active lifestyle and better public health outcomes. Moreover, non-motorised transport creates safer and more inclusive urban spaces by prioritizing the needs of pedestrians and cyclists.
Lastly, non-motorised transport is a cost-effective transportation option, particularly for low-income communities. It requires minimal infrastructure compared to motorised transport, making it more accessible and affordable for those with limited financial resources.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite the numerous benefits, there are challenges and limitations to the adoption of non-motorised transport in Kenya. Limited public awareness and support for non-motorised transport may hinder its implementation. Additionally, resistance from the motorised transport industry, including motorbike operators, may pose obstacles to the integration of cycling and walking infrastructure.
Insufficient funding for the development and maintenance of cycling and walking infrastructure is another challenge. Without adequate resources, it may be difficult to create and upkeep the necessary infrastructure to support non-motorised transport. Furthermore, the lack of integration with public transport systems presents a limitation, as seamless connectivity between different modes of transportation is essential for a well-functioning transport network.
Case Studies and Success Stories
There are successful examples of the implementation of non-motorised transport in other countries that Kenya can learn from. Studying these case studies provides valuable insights into best practices and innovative solutions for incorporating non-motorised transport in road construction. These examples can guide Kenya in planning and executing its own non-motorised transport initiatives.
Public Outreach and Awareness
To ensure the success of non-motorised transport in Kenya, public outreach and awareness campaigns are crucial. Educational programs and campaigns can help promote the benefits of cycling and walking and encourage more people to consider non-motorised modes of transportation. Engaging with the public and raising awareness about the importance of non-motorised transport can also be done through partnerships with community organizations, schools, and local authorities to reach a wider audience.
Policy and Regulation
National transport policy plays a critical role in promoting non-motorised transport. Legislative measures and regulations are necessary to support the adoption of non-motorised transport in road construction. Collaboration between government agencies, road authorities, and urban planning departments is essential to ensure cohesive planning and implementation of non-motorised transport initiatives.
Conclusion
The adoption of non-motorised transport in road construction is a positive step towards creating a sustainable and inclusive transportation system in Kenya. By incorporating non-motorised transport, Kenya can reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, promote public health, and minimize environmental impact. With proper planning, implementation, and regulation, non-motorised transport can contribute significantly to the development of a more efficient and people-centered transportation network in Kenya.