Kenyan roads could soon have dedicated lanes for cyclists and pedestrian walkways after the Members of Parliament approved legislation seeking to make non-motorised transport infrastructure a mandatory part of road design.
The Bill, sponsored by Naisula Lesuuda as National Assembly Bill No. 31 of 2024, seeks to amend the Kenya Roads Act to strengthen the provision of infrastructure for non-motorised transport (NMT).
If enacted, the proposed law will require road authorities to incorporate facilities specifically designed for pedestrians to walk, cycle or use other forms non-motorised transport.
Dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrians’ walkways and pedestrian crossing with infrastructure separated from lanes used by motorists are among the facilities proposed in law.
The Bill targets the Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) to factor non-motorised transport facilities into design and constructions of roads under their jurisdiction.
The bill seeks to mandate police officers with the duty of enforcing the use of non-motorised transport infrastructure protecting pedestrians and cyclists using their facilities.
The move comes amidst persistent concerns over the use of vulnerable road users in Kenya as pedestrians and cyclists share road space with motor vehicles particularly on busy roads despite limited infrastructure.
The Bill therefore seeks to change this situation by ensuring needs of pedestrians and cyclists form a part of road planning rather than leaving their safety to existing road designs.
For cyclists, the bill could provide greater protection from vehicles and create safer routes for commuting and recreation.
Pedestrians too could similarly benefit from infrastructure that that separates them from fast-moving traffic.
The Bill is expected to proceed to the president for presidential assent and if signed into law, road authorities will bear the responsibility of implementing the requirements on both new projects and designated existing roads.
Legislation of the bill could place a greater responsibility on road authorities to prioritize safety and mobility of pedestrians and cyclists.