Traffic officers in Mombasa have undergone a specialized training exercise on the use of speed enforcement cameras and speed guns, in a renewed push to curb speeding and reduce road crashes along the coastal city’s busy roads.

The training, supported by the Bloomberg Initiative for Road Safety and the Global Road Safety Partnership (GRSP), is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement and build capacity within local police units. Mombasa was selected as a key training location, with similar workshops conducted three to four times each year.

Speaking during the exercise, Marco Schaler from the Global Road Safety Partnership emphasized the importance of consistent enforcement.

“Speeding remains one of the main killers on our roads. That is why exercises like this are critical in building the capacity of officers to effectively use speed guns and other enforcement tools,” he said.

Authorities noted that many drivers tend to slow down only when they spot traffic officers, highlighting the need for sustained and technology-driven enforcement.

Saidi Saidi, Enforcement Coordinator at the Bloomberg Initiative for Road Safety, said the program is focused on long-term impact.

“The main purpose of this activity is to reduce road deaths and severe injuries, and to help achieve Vision Zero by 2030. We are committed to ensuring safer roads through continuous training, enforcement, and partnerships,” he said.

The initiative, which began in 2021, is being implemented in collaboration with the Global Road Safety Partnership, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the Kenya Police, and county inspectorate teams.

As part of the program, officers have received speed guns, road cones, and laptops to support enforcement operations. Plans are also underway to supply alcoblow devices to enhance checks on drunk driving.

Beyond speed enforcement, the initiative includes a data collection component where officers record details of road crashes and submit reports to headquarters. The data helps identify high-risk areas, common causes of accidents, and the severity of injuries.

“These reports guide us in advising county governments on where enforcement is most needed,” Saidi added.

Officials say combining enforcement with data-driven strategies is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

“If we all work together , police, government agencies, and the public, we will improve safety on our roads,” Schaler noted.

The intensified crackdown on speeding comes amid growing concern over road safety in Kenya, where speeding continues to contribute significantly to fatalities and serious injuries.

Authorities are optimistic that with enhanced training, modern equipment, and stronger collaboration, Mombasa will see a reduction in crashes and move closer to achieving safer roads for all.

A devastating fire incident in Magongo on Sunday evening has left several families homeless after three houses were completely destroyed, prompting leaders in Mombasa to call for urgent improvements in the county’s fire and rescue response.

Speaking at the scene, Senator Faki emphasized the need for the county government to strengthen its emergency response systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“The county government needs to invest more in the fire and rescue department to avert more disasters,” said Faki.

Area Mp Omar Mwinyi assured the victims of continued support, noting that he and the Senator had adjusted their schedules to stand with the affected families during the difficult time.

“We are here to stand with the family. The Senator and I were supposed to be in Nairobi for parliamentary business, but we have decided to be here with you. We will stand with you all the way,” said Mwinyi.

The MP further revealed that Suleiman Shahbal had been informed about the tragedy and had had already extended his support.

“I informed my friend Suleiman Shahbal about this incident, and he has sent his contribution of kshs 100,000 and promised to be with you all the way,” he added.

Residents, however, expressed frustration with what they termed as a delayed response by the county’s fire and rescue department, which they said worsened the situation and led to greater losses.

Some locals claimed that by the time firefighters arrived at the scene, the flames had already spread uncontrollably, making it difficult to salvage property.

The incident has once again brought to the fore concerns over the capacity and efficiency of Mombasa County’s emergency response units, with leaders and residents alike calling for urgent reforms and better resourcing of the fire department.

No casualties were reported, but families affected by the fire are now appealing for well-wishers and authorities to support them as they begin to rebuild their lives.

Mombasa Governor and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir has urged political unity among party leaders and aspirants, emphasizing the need to work together for development and a successful 2027 general election, 

Speaking on Sunday during the official opening of the new 1.3km cabro road in Owino Uhuru, Jomvu. linking Mikindani and Jomvu Kuu wards, Nassir stressed that party cohesion will be critical in determining ODM’s role ahead of the next election cycle.

“We have always said that ODM does not work in isolation. Our history as a party is built on strong partnerships with like‑minded forces,” Nassir stated, calling on all leaders to respect the collective decision of the party.

The governor underscored the party’s backing of Dr Oburu Oginga as the official leader to begin strategic talks with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), reinforcing that the majority of party members have settled on his leadership.

“If you do not want Oburu Oginga as party leader, step aside and let ODM members move on with him,” Nassir said, directly addressing critics within the party ranks.

Dr Oburu Oginga, a seasoned politician and current ODM Party Leader, is expected to lead discussions as ODM explores working arrangements with UDA ahead of the next general election.

Nassir also cautioned against disrespectful attacks on party leadership, saying: “Respect is not slavery. You cannot insult your elders. We must all respect the party leader,” he remarked, in reference to criticism directed at Oburu.

Acknowledging internal differences, Nassir nevertheless appealed for mutual respect and unity of purpose: “For those who are not comfortable, please respect our choices and chart your own way without interfering with us.”

He reiterated ODM’s historical approach to coalition politics and stressed that the party’s strategic position should reflect its commitment to development and national leadership.

“In 2027, we should either be in government or forming the government,” he said.

The commissioning of the road project is part of broader infrastructure improvements in Mombasa aimed at enhancing accessibility and boosting local socio‑economic activity.

As the political temperature rises ahead of the 2027 polls, Nassir’s comments signal ODM’s intent to consolidate support and leverage partnerships, while firmly backing its chosen leadership to steer negotiations and alliance building.

A section of Mombasa leaders have rallied behind Governor Abdulswamad Nassir following his recent confirmation as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader, using the occasion to endorse his leadership and call for his re-election.

The leaders spoke during the commissioning of the Owino Uhuru Road in Jomvu, a project they described as a major milestone for residents who have long struggled with poor infrastructure.

Bofu Ward MCA Manuari Juma congratulated the Governor on his new party role, terming it a vote of confidence in his leadership.

“We congratulate Governor Nassir for his confirmation as ODM Deputy Leader. This is a clear indication of trust and faith in his leadership,” said Manuari.

Miritini MCA Kibwana Swaleh praised the Governor’s development track record, insisting he deserves another term in office.

“Governor Nassir, you truly deserve another term. You have proven this through your work,” he said.

Mombasa Woman Representative aspirant Amina Abdallah urged residents to remain united behind the Governor, dismissing criticism from his opponents.

“We are firmly behind Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and we will ensure that he gets back to office for a second term. We have seen his work. Let us not listen to critics and naysayers,” she stated.

Jomvu MP Badi Twalib highlighted the significance of the newly commissioned road, noting that it has transformed the lives of local residents.

“Governor Nassir is a trusted leader who has always stood with his people. The construction of this road is a true testament. The people here have never seen a road, but the Governor has made it possible,” said Badi.

He also reiterated his support for the Governor’s re-election and leadership within ODM.

“We would like to congratulate him for being confirmed as the ODM Deputy Party Leader. We have faith in his leadership. He is a two-term Governor, and we will stand with him. We will go where he tells us to go,” he added.

Nominated MCA Mwaka Bakari echoed the sentiments, noting that while the Governor has delivered on key promises, more still needs to be done.

“Our Governor has delivered some of his promises and needs another chance to continue with his agenda,” she said.

The commissioning of the Owino Uhuru Road marks a significant step in improving infrastructure in Jomvu, with leaders expressing optimism that more development projects will follow under Governor Nassir’s leadership.

A grieving family in Mtongwe has received a major relief after Mombasa Empowerment stepped in to settle an outstanding medical bill for the late Phance Kemunto, a 32-year-old single mother who passed away earlier this week.

The organization cleared the bill at Coast General Hospital, easing the financial burden on the bereaved family during an already difficult time.

Kemunto, described as a hardworking woman, died on Monday, March 26, 2026, in Mtongwe.

The incident was formally reported at the police station under OB Number 22/23/03/2026 at 2330 hours.

She leaves behind two young children, including 12-year-old Amina Said Ali, a pupil at Likoni Primary School, and her younger sibling, Omari Saidi Said Ali.

Speaking on behalf of Mombasa Empowerment, Evans Momanyi expressed condolences to the family and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting vulnerable members of the community.

"Mombasa Empowerment wishes to inform the public that today we successfully offset the outstanding medical bill for the late Phance Kemunto. This is part of our commitment to stand with families in their time of need,” he said.

He further revealed that beyond settling the hospital bill, he has taken a personal initiative to ensure the children’s future is safeguarded through education support.

"Following this unfortunate loss, I have taken the personal initiative to support and facilitate the education of the children to ensure their future remains secure despite the tragic circumstances,” he added.