Why NTSA is training PSV drivers, operators countrywide

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has initiated a nationwide training program for public service vehicle (PSV) drivers and operators in preparation for the Christmas holiday season. This effort is part of broader reforms aimed at professionalising the public transport sector, improving compliance, and reducing road traffic accidents.

Over 4,000 drivers, SACCO managers, supervisors, and operators will receive free training to transform the sector from informal, passenger-focused operations to well-managed, safe, financially stable, and compliant businesses. The programme, spearheaded in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, is divided into four phases: design and baseline assessment, pilot programme, national rollout, and institutionalisation and sustainability.

The initial cohort began training on September 21 in Taita Taveta, Mombasa, and Garissa counties, with plans to expand to other regions. NTSA emphasizes the importance of treating drivers and operators as partners in ensuring road safety. The initiative will train both individuals and the organisations they work for, recognizing their vital roles in fostering a safety culture and mitigating crashes caused by behavioural, vehicular, and operational issues.

The programme aims to professionalise PSV drivers through training on defensive driving, passenger care, compliance, and emergency response. It will also enhance drivers' and operators' business, financial, and fleet-management capabilities while ensuring adherence to traffic laws, licensing, roadworthiness, insurance, and passenger safety standards.

Additionally, the training will generate insights into revising existing regulations and fostering partnerships between NTSA and industry stakeholders for deeper structural reforms, such as operator consolidation and integrated fare systems.