MPs pass law for dedicated cyclists, pedestrians and non-motorised transport users

The National Assembly of Kenya has passed the Kenya Roads (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which mandates the creation of dedicated infrastructure for cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized transport users on designated roads nationwide. Sponsored by Naisula Lesuuda as National Assembly Bill 2024, this legislation seeks to strengthen provisions for non-motorized transport (NMT) by amending the Kenya Roads Act.

The passage of this law represents a significant step towards enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety on Kenya’s roads, particularly in densely populated urban areas where these vulnerable road users frequently share space with motor vehicles.

The Bill introduces detailed definitions for essential terms, such as "cycling lane," "pedestrian walkway," and "non-motorized vehicles," thus establishing a clearer legal foundation for planning and enforcing NMT infrastructure. Under the proposed amendments, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), and Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) will be obliged to design and construct dedicated facilities for non-motorized transport within the scope of roads under their jurisdiction.

These facilities will encompass sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and cycle lanes, effectively segregating vulnerable road users from motorized traffic.

The legislation aims to ensure that NMT infrastructure is an integral part of road design and construction rather than an afterthought. Furthermore, the Bill empowers the police to enforce rules governing the use of these dedicated facilities, thereby enhancing the safety of non-motorized transport users. As Kenya’s urban areas continue to expand, the demand for safer and more inclusive transport infrastructure is on the rise.

The proposed law seeks to address this need by mandating the creation of dedicated lanes, thereby reducing conflicts between motor vehicles and NMT users and promoting safer modes of transportation.

Beyond bicycles, the legislation extends its benefits to pedestrians, cyclists, and users of other non-motorized vehicles, establishing a more balanced approach to road planning that accommodates the needs of various categories of users rather than prioritizing motor vehicles. If enacted, the amendments will impose new responsibilities on KeNHA, KeRRA, and KURA, potentially influencing road design and construction practices across urban, rural, and national highway settings in Kenya.