Nairobi, April 4, 2025 – The International Road Federation (IRF Global), in collaboration with TIMCON and the World Bank’s Global Road Safety Facility (GRSF), has successfully completed a significant capacity-building program aimed at strengthening Kenya’s institutional capabilities in road safety management. This intensive Road Safety course, held from March 31 to April 4, represents a key milestone in Kenya’s efforts to reduce its road fatality rate through professional safety assessment protocols.

The specialized training provided by IRF Global was designed for the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) and included road safety professionals from engineering firms and urban planning departments. Participants received comprehensive instruction on internationally recognized Road Safety Assessment (RSA) methodologies tailored to address Kenya’s unique infrastructure challenges and traffic conditions.

TECHNICAL CURRICULUM ADDRESSES LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE CHALLENGES

A defining feature of the program was its emphasis on real-world application. Participants conducted field audits along two high-risk corridors in Nairobi, where they practiced newly acquired assessment techniques. This hands-on experience allowed them to pinpoint design shortcomings, operational hazards, and maintenance issues linked to crash risks.

Covering the complete Road Safety Audit (RSA) lifecycle—from planning through implementation—the curriculum introduced the Safe System Approach in the African context, cost-benefit analysis for safety interventions, and strategies for safeguarding Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) in mixed-traffic environments. Additional modules on speed management principles, kinetic energy reduction methods, and work zone safety protocols (aligned with ISO standards) further broadened the skill set of participants. Kenya’s newly developed RSA guidelines and compliance requirements were also featured, equipping professionals to advance road safety initiatives throughout the country.

This initiative directly contributes to Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan 2023–2027, which prioritizes professional capacity building as a pivotal element in cutting road fatalities by 50% by 2030.

CERTIFICATION AWARDED AS PROGRAM CHARTS FUTURE ROADMAP

Upon successfully completing the program and passing the competency evaluation, participants received globally recognized IRF certificates.

Looking ahead, IRF Global and its partners have crafted a detailed roadmap to ensure the program’s long-term impact. A Kenyan RSA Practitioner Registry will be established to uphold professional standards, while follow-up mentorship sessions through 2025 will reinforce participants’ competencies. Partners also plan to create localized training materials, featuring Kenyan case studies and best practices to maintain ongoing relevance. A primary focus is supporting the nationwide adoption of mandatory RSA requirements for major infrastructure projects, thereby embedding safety audits as a standard practice throughout Kenya’s transport sector.

IRF GLOBAL OFFERS CUSTOM TRANSPORT TRAINING PROGRAM

The International Road Federation (IRF Global) delivers tailor-made training solutions across all transport sectors, including road safety, highway engineering, and intelligent transport systems. Each program is adapted to regional needs and features practical field components.

Government agencies, companies, and other organizations interested in customized training initiatives can contact Magid Elabyad at melabyad@IRF.global.