In a hall filled with songs, and poetry, schoolchildren took on a subject that often escapes adult attention: Road safety.
At the VIA Road Safety National Competition 2026, held in Nairobi, learners from eight schools stepped forward not just to perform, but to persuade. Their message was simple and direct, slow down, pay attention, and protect lives.
Representing schools from across the country, including Arap Moi Primary, Athi River Primary and St Augustine Mlolongo Secondary, the pupils used skits, spoken word and demonstrations to show the risks they face daily. Speeding cars. Distracted drivers. Pedestrians who take chances.
The event, organized by the Kenya Red Cross Society in partnership with Safe Way Right Way, placed young people at the centre of the conversation. Teachers, officials and community leaders watched as the students made their case, sometimes with humour, often with striking clarity.
Organizers said the performances were meant to do more than entertain. A recurring theme ran through many of the presentations: the call for lower speeds around schools. Several groups wove the 30 km/h speed limit into their acts, reflecting growing awareness of its potential to reduce injuries.
That message aligns with ongoing efforts by the Kenya Red Cross Society, through the International Centre for Humanitarian Affairs (ICHA), to push for changes in the law. Current regulations set the limit at 50 km/h in many populated areas, including near schools. Advocates argue that is too high.
The proposed amendment to Section 42 of the Traffic Act would lower the limit to 30 km/h in school zones and other areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, such as residential neighbourhoods, playgrounds and near hospitals. Supporters say the change would better protect children and other vulnerable road users.
Not everyone agrees on how quickly such reforms should move, but there is little dispute about the risks. Road traffic injuries remain a concern in Kenya, particularly for pedestrians.
At the end of the day, the competition returned to its roots. Scores were tallied. Athi River Primary School emerged the winner with 85.55 points, narrowly ahead of Ngeya Comprehensive School. St Augustine Mlolongo Secondary School placed third.
Other schools followed closely behind, each having made its case in its own way. Even City Primary School, which had only just presented its proposal, drew attention for its effort.
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