Nairobi Receives Traffic Lights and CCTV at 125 Crossroads as Part of a China Agreement

Posted on : Monday , 4th March 2024

As part of a Chinese-funded initiative to improve safety and streamline traffic for both cars and people walking, 125 crossroads in Nairobi will get new traffic signals and traffic video surveillance cameras.

According to the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), a loan from the Exim Bank of China would be used to finance the project, which will be carried out by Chinese contractors.  

In addition to installing an advanced traffic management system, traffic signal control and CCTV at 125 crossings, the project will include the construction of a traffic management centre.

Additionally, the project will install traffic infraction detection technology at 125 junctions, 30 intelligent checkpoints, 10 traffic guidance systems and 80 traffic flow gathering locations.

Kura stated that "The project's scope of works includes the integration of installed systems with other third-party systems, the operation and maintenance of all ITS equipment from the conclusion of the defects liability period until the contract's expiration and the provision of technical support services for operations, capacity building and training."

In December, Kipchumba Murkomen, the cabinet secretary for transport, disclosed government intentions to put 400-speed surveillance cameras on Nairobi roadways.

He declared that the devices would be installed by the government as part of the implementation of the ITS, with the goal of enacting immediate fines for vehicles and pedestrians who violate the law.

"We intend to deploy speed cameras all throughout the nation. In Nairobi, we also want to impose the so-called smart traffic system and put cameras in 421 crossroads. We already have a pilot project underway and cameras are located at Kinungi, Waiyaki Way, Thika Road and the Southern Bypass" according to the CS.

Some major roads in Nairobi are still congested, a problem that is partially caused by irresponsible drivers and broken traffic control systems.