The Mombasa County Government has announced plans to install electronic fines and CCTV cameras at major traffic light intersections in a bid to curb traffic offenses and enhance road safety.
The move is part of a broader smart traffic management initiative aimed at promoting discipline among motorists and ensuring smooth traffic flow within the city.
According to the Department of transport and infrastructure Chief officer Ali Sharif the electronic system will automatically capture and record violations such as red-light jumping, speeding, and unauthorized lane changes. Offending motorists will then receive instant electronic fines, marking a shift towards a more efficient and transparent enforcement process.
Speaking during a media roundtable organised by the Bloomberg Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), Sharif called on the media to support the county government in its effort to promote road safety.
Sharif pointed out several initiatives that the county government has undertaken in the road safety campaign including the recent reinstation of traffic lights at Sabasaba and Buxton intersections.
"As the County Government, we have already done our part on the engineering front. The next critical phase sensitization and public educationnow rests with you, our partners in the media. We urge you to join us in this effort so that together, we can build a more informed and responsible community." said Sharif.
Adding "The media has a crucial role to play in promoting and advocating for road safety. You can also play a major role in changing the perception and behaviours of our people through your reporting, with the changes that the county is undertaking we need a change from the current behaviours."
Sharif noted that the initiative will not only deter reckless driving but also help reduce road accidents and congestion. The integration of technology, he said, will ensure accountability, improve compliance with traffic regulations, and support the city’s long-term goal of creating safer and more orderly roads.
The Chief Officer further noted that the county government is working with several partners and organisations including BIGRS in the road safety campaign.
On his part BIGRS Coordinator Vipul Patel also emphasized on the need for more support from the media noting that the organisation will continue partnering with the county government in the road safety campaign.
" Media is very key in this campaign, you are the ones who will help us pass the message to the masses and that's why we will also continue engaging you, let's get away from just criticising but also finding solutions" argued Patel.
