NTSA’s new matatu rules explained: What every passenger and motorist needs to know
A proposed shake-up of how Kenya’s matatus and other public service vehicles are assessed could change who is allowed to certify their compliance with technical standards, putting the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) at the centre of a process that has largely been handled through an industry-based arrangement. For millions of Kenyans who use […]
A proposed overhaul of Kenya's matatu and public service vehicle (PSV) assessment process could shift the authorities responsible for ensuring these vehicles meet technical standards. Currently, conformity assessments are largely handled through an industry-based arrangement managed by the Kenya Association of Bus Manufacturers.
However, the proposed National Transport and Safety Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2026 aims to introduce a formal licensing and oversight system for PSV conformity assessors, with the objective of ensuring these assessors are independent from businesses involved in the building, supplying, owning, or maintaining the vehicles.
The bill proposes that NTSA would register and license individuals or organizations to carry out these assessments, requiring assessors to obtain a licence before conducting any conformity checks in Kenya. This licensing system would also seek to address potential conflicts of interest within the current system, where the Kenya Association of Bus Manufacturers also handles conformity assessments, which could introduce links to vehicle manufacturing or supply businesses.
Operators of matatus and buses would mainly experience changes in the assessment process for vehicle conformity. The assessors conducting these assessments would need to operate under an NTSA licensing framework, which includes prescribing assessment criteria, designating assessors, and periodically auditing these assessors to ensure compliance with regulations.
Assessors would be required to submit technical reports after completing their assessments, providing NTSA with a stronger line of oversight over the assessment process.
For passengers, the changes would be predominantly behind the scenes and could indirectly impact the safety and condition of the PSVs they use. The proposal does not introduce new fares, routes, or charges; its potential impact on passengers relates to the technical condition and construction of the vehicles they utilize. If the new system is effectively implemented, it could lead to more consistently compliant public service vehicles on the road, although this is contingent upon various factors such as vehicle maintenance, driver conduct, road conditions, and enforcement of other transport regulations.
The Bill addresses one aspect of passenger safety by focusing on technical standards and assessment methods, but it does not guarantee improvements in road safety.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
