NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a fresh warning to motorists ahead of the August school holidays, urging drivers and vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and fully compliant with licensing requirements before taking to the roads.
The advisory comes as thousands of learners across the country prepare to travel home for the August break, a period that typically records increased movement of school buses, vans, matatus and private vehicles.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 27, the transport regulator reminded motorists that they bear the responsibility of ensuring the vehicles they operate meet all safety standards.
“Drivers and vehicle owners have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are in good condition and have valid licenses as schools prepare to close,” NTSA said.
The authority said the heightened travel during the school holiday season significantly increases the risk of road crashes involving children, prompting a nationwide road safety campaign aimed at protecting learners and other road users.
As part of the initiative, NTSA announced it will intensify enforcement operations targeting vehicles transporting schoolchildren.
The exercise will be conducted in collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS), County Transport and Safety Committees, and other road safety stakeholders.
The multi-agency operation will include random inspections and spot checks on major highways and travel routes across the country.
Inspectors will assess whether vehicles are roadworthy, with particular attention given to the condition of tyres, brakes, seat belts, speed limiters and other mandatory safety features.
The authority also warned that officers will take firm action against motorists found speeding, overloading passengers, driving under the influence of alcohol or operating vehicles while fatigued—factors that continue to contribute to fatal road crashes in Kenya.
Earlier, in a July 23 advisory, NTSA appealed to parents, guardians, school transport operators and all road users to prioritize the safety of children during the holiday travel period.
The authority said the enhanced enforcement measures are designed to reduce accidents and ensure learners travel safely as schools close for the August holiday before reopening in September.