NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has suspended the operating licences of four public transport operators following a spike in fatal road crashes recorded during the December 2025 festive season.
In a statement on Monday, NTSA said investigations into the crashes revealed widespread non-compliance with road safety regulations, particularly violations related to speed control systems and driver conduct.
The suspended operators are Monna Comfort Sacco, Greenline Company Limited, Naekana Route 134 Sacco Ltd, and Uwezo Coast Shuttle.
NTSA also placed Guardian Coach Limited and Nanyuki Express Cab Services Ltd on notice, granting them 21 days to meet strict compliance conditions or risk suspension of their licences.
Speed limiter violations flagged
According to the Authority, the enforcement action was largely informed by failure to comply with KS 2295-2023-a, a Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) specification governing maximum road speed limiters for motor vehicles.
Other breaches included violations of NTSA regulations applicable to public service vehicles (PSVs).
“The Authority shall conduct safety compliance audits on the operators before their licences are reinstated,” NTSA said.
The public has been warned against boarding vehicles operated by the suspended Saccos and companies, with NTSA stressing that the move is aimed at safeguarding passengers and improving overall road safety.
Enforcement agencies, including the Traffic Department, have been alerted to ensure full implementation of the directive. Vehicles found operating in defiance of the suspension will be impounded.
Four Public Transport Operators suspended #UsalamaBarabarani
Drivers suspended, licences cancelled
NTSA further cancelled the PSV endorsement classes of drivers linked to speed violations and fatal crashes, suspending their driving licences for 90 days.
After the suspension period, affected drivers will be required to undergo a mandatory re-test before resuming driving duties.
Both the suspended operators and those issued with compliance notices were directed to immediately disengage the implicated drivers from all driving responsibilities.
Strict conditions for reinstatement
The affected companies must present vehicles cited for violations to approved speed limiter vendors for functionality checks and submit detailed compliance reports to NTSA.
They are also required to provide signed contracts for drivers and staff, alongside proof of compliance with Section 5(1)(e) of NTSA regulations.
Additional requirements include submission of six months’ payroll records, PAYE, NSSF and SHA remittances, as well as last-quarter compliance reports covering October to December 2025.
NTSA has further directed the operators to conduct internal road safety sensitisation programmes, establish operational offices or coordination points at major county pick-up and drop-off locations, and submit lists of licensed routes and assigned vehicles.
Drivers must undergo sensitisation sessions, with operators required to submit reports, photographs, minutes and attendance lists as proof of compliance.
NTSA said the measures underscore its firm stance on enforcing safety standards across Kenya’s public transport sector, particularly during high-risk travel periods.
