Private Cars to Be Banned From Entering Nairobi

Through a Senate Order Paper dated December 5, nominated Senator Crystal Asige has put forth a motion advocating for the prohibition of private cars in Nairobi and other urban centers across the country on designated days.

The motion, titled “Designation of a Monthly Car Free Day and County Car Free Zones,” is driven by the goal of minimizing pollution caused by vehicular emissions.

Senator Asige, in her motion, expressed the belief that this initiative will guarantee Kenyans access to a clean and healthy environment, in line with the vision outlined in Article 42 of the Constitution.

The parliamentarian argued that according to the National Climate Action Plan, transport has been identified as the fourth largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. 

Should action not be taken, Asige reckons that it will result in the negative impact of Climate Change that will affect millions of Kenya. 

Additionally, the Senator noted that the number of private vehicles has significantly grown leading to increased road accidents, carbon emission and vehicle congestion costs. 

“The Senate urges the Ministry of Roads and Transport, in collaboration with the Council of Governors, and the National Climate Change Council to identify, publicise and execute suitable monthly car-free days and County car-free zones in urban areas,” the Motion reads in part. 

The mentioned governmental entities will also have the responsibility of ensuring the availability of cost-effective and reliable public transportation.

To access Nairobi City on car-free days, Kenyans will have the option of utilizing the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system.

Asige additionally recommends that, during the development of BRT, efforts should be made to promote the use of electric hybrid buses among the public.

She further advises both county and national governments to design infrastructure that supports non-motorized transport, including pedestrian and bicycle access within urban centers.