Management of road intersection and performance of intelligent traffic control systemsnairobi county, kenya: Does traffic legal framework matter?

Objective: The study aimed to examine the moderating role of traffic legal framework on the relationship between road intersection management and the performance of Intelligent Traffic Control Systems (ITCS) in Nairobi County, Kenya. Theoretical Framework: This study is anchored on systems theory, which explains how interconnected components within traffic management influence ITCS performance; regulatory governance theory, which emphasizes the role of legal frameworks in ensuring compliance and enhancing system effectiveness; and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which highlights the adoption and impact of ITCS based on regulatory and infrastructural support. Methods: A pragmatic research paradigm was adopted, utilizing a mixed-methods research design. The study targeted a population of 942 traffic stakeholders. Primary data collection methods included key informant interviews and structured questionnaires. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results and Discussion: The model was statistically significant (R² = 0.531, F = 13.64, p < 0.05), indicating that 53.1% of the variance in ITCS performance was explained by the independent variables and their interaction. Road intersection management positively and significantly predicted ITCS performance (β = 0.017, p < 0.05). Similarly, the traffic legal framework had a significant positive effect on ITCS performance (β = 0.12, p < 0.05). The interaction term (β = 0.17, p < 0.05) confirmed that a robust traffic legal framework enhances the impact of intersection management on ITCS efficiency. Research Implication: The findings highlight the critical role of a well-structured traffic legal framework in improving ITCS effectiveness. Strengthening traffic law enforcement, conducting periodic legal reviews, and implementing data-driven intersection management strategies can enhance urban mobility. A holistic approach that integrates legal, infrastructural, and technological components is necessary to improve traffic flow, travel time efficiency, and pedestrian control in Nairobi County. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how regulatory frameworks moderate the impact of road intersection management on ITCS performance. It provides valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners on optimizing traffic management strategies to enhance intelligent traffic control efficiency in urban settings.