The Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), in collaboration with key local stakeholders, conducted a critical sensitization campaign on axle load control along the Samburu-Kinango Road in Kwale County. The campaign aimed to raise awareness among truck owners, drivers, and the local community about the importance of adhering to axle load limits to safeguard road infrastructure and promote road safety.

Among the key stakeholders were; County Commissioner (Kwale County), Magistrate (Kwale Law Courts), Representative from Director of Public Prosecutions (Kwale Regional Office), Truck Owners Association (TOA) and the residents of Vigurungani, Kinango and Samburu area.

The main goal of the sensitization campaign was to educate stakeholders on the negative impact of overloading on roads, particularly in the rural areas of Kwale County, where infrastructure is more vulnerable. Overloaded trucks can cause significant damage to roads, leading to costly repairs, delays in transport, and increased risks to road safety.

Stakeholders Sentiments

• The County Commissioner highlighted the importance of enforcement and the role of local government in ensuring compliance with road safety regulations.
• The Magistrate emphasized the legal ramifications of overloading, explaining the judicial process for handling violations.
• The Representative from the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions (Kwale Regional Office) reassured the public that legal actions would be pursued for those found violating axle load limits, reinforcing the seriousness of the issue.
• Representatives from the Truck Owners Association discussed the challenges faced by the trucking community and expressed a commitment to supporting measures that would balance the needs of business and road safety.

By fostering collaboration between local authorities, legal professionals, and the trucking industry, the exercise has paved the way for more sustainable and safer transportation practices in the region.