Burden and trends of road traffic injuries in Kenya from 2014 to 2023: insights from the Global Burden of Disease Study

Background Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a global contributor to injury-related mortality, with low- and middle-income countries bearing a disproportionate burden. Objective To assess the burden and trend of RTIs in Kenya from 2014 to 2023 using the Global Burden of Disease Data. Methods We conducted secondary analysis of RTIs using the Global Burden of Disease GBD) data. Numbers and rates per 100 000 of mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) were reported with a 95% uncertainty interval. The average annual percentage change was calculated to assess trends in age-standardised mortality and DALY rates. Results From 2014 to 2023, age-standardised mortality and DALY rates for road injuries in Kenya showed an overall increasing trend, with motorcyclist-related injuries experiencing the most pronounced rise. Pedestrian injuries contributed to the highest mortality, while motor vehicle injuries accounted for the greatest DALYs. Vulnerable road users motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians demonstrated consistent upward trends, particularly during 2021. Road-injury rates were substantially higher in males compared with females and were greatest among adults aged 55 years and above. Conclusions Road injuries in Kenya increased from 2014 to 2023, particularly among motorcyclists. In 2023, motor vehicle occupants and pedestrians bore the highest mortality and DALY burden. Males and adults aged ≥55 years had the highest mortality and DALY rates.