The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has implemented stricter regulations in Kenya to enhance road safety. Previously, the use of KD plates was less regulated, leading to misuse. Now, NTSA has tightened rules on KD plates to curb this issue.
KD plates are not a substitute for standard number plates. Their use is restricted to specific purposes outlined in law. Nashon Kondiwa stated, “A KD plate is not a substitute for a standard motor vehicle registration plate. Its use is strictly governed by the law.” This change aims to clarify the legal framework surrounding vehicle registration.
Motor vehicle dealers face new financial requirements. They must pay annual fees of Sh9,600 for new vehicle dealers and Sh4,200 for second-hand dealers. Additionally, new KD plates will cost Sh18,500, while renewals are set at Sh6,300.
All vehicles on public roads must have at least third-party insurance cover as mandated under the Insurance (Motor Vehicle Third Party Risks) Act. This regulation reinforces the need for responsible vehicle ownership.
As schools prepare to reopen, NTSA issued a safety checklist for school administrators. The checklist ensures safe transportation of learners when schools resume operations. School transport vehicles must pass safety compliance checks under Operation Watoto Wafike Salama.
Yet, school buses are not permitted to operate before 6 AM or after 6 PM to keep learners safe. This restriction aims to reduce risks associated with transporting children during high-traffic hours.
NTSA has intensified inspections targeting public service vehicles and school transport operators. Failure to comply with these safety standards could attract penalties, including withdrawal of operating licences for school transport providers.
This regulatory shift comes amid alarming statistics—31 lives were claimed by road traffic accidents in the first six days of 2026. The National Police Service remarked, “This is unacceptably alarming and cannot be allowed to continue. It is a crisis that demands immediate, collective, and decisive action.”
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how these changes will impact accident rates in the long term. However, NTSA’s focus on enforcement suggests a commitment to improving overall road safety in Kenya.
