NAIROBI, Kenya — Public transport operators have welcomed the introduction of the new digital traffic enforcement system by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) but raised concerns over gaps in its implementation.
The Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) said the Instant Fines System Technology has the potential to improve road discipline and reduce corruption, but requires clearer guidelines before full implementation.
In a statement issued on March 9, the federation said the technology-driven system could help reduce road accidents by promoting responsible driving.
“The use of technology will help improve driver discipline and reduce corruption, which can lead to fewer road accidents in Kenya,” FPTS said.
Call for Clear Rules
Transport operators said many drivers still lack clear information on the traffic offences detected by the automated cameras and the penalties attached.
The federation urged NTSA to publish a transparent list of offences and the corresponding fines to help motorists understand the rules before penalties accumulate.
“Drivers and the public need clear information on the offences covered under the system and the amount charged for each offence,” the federation said.
“Publishing this information will help road users understand the rules and comply.”
Visibility of Enforcement Cameras
Operators also recommended that enforcement cameras be clearly marked along highways and urban roads.
According to the federation, global experience shows that visible surveillance cameras encourage drivers to slow down and comply with traffic rules.
“In many countries, traffic enforcement cameras are clearly marked and visible to road users. This helps drivers slow down and follow traffic rules,” the group said.
Responsibility for Traffic Violations
Another concern raised by operators relates to who bears responsibility for fines issued to public service vehicles.
Many matatus operate under SACCO structures where a registered owner or management body differs from the individual driver operating the vehicle at the time of an offence.
The federation said this creates uncertainty over whether penalties should fall on the driver, vehicle owner, or the SACCO management.
Cross-Border Transport Concerns
Transport operators also raised questions about enforcement involving foreign-registered vehicles entering Kenya.
Trucks from neighbouring countries regularly transit through the country, prompting calls for clarity on how such vehicles will receive digital notifications, pay penalties, and clear fines before exiting the country.
Digital Enforcement Network
According to NTSA, the automated enforcement system relies on more than 1,000 smart cameras capable of detecting at least 37 different traffic offences in real time.
The offences include speeding, lane indiscipline, pavement driving, and failure to wear seatbelts.
Penalties generated by the system range between Sh500 and Sh10,000 depending on the violation.
Motorists who fail to settle fines within seven days risk additional interest charges and may also be locked out of transactions on the NTSA digital services platform until payment is made.
Budget and Legal Concerns
Transport operators cautioned that the system is being rolled out amid financial constraints affecting road safety enforcement agencies.
They warned that without sustained funding, maintaining the camera network, monitoring infrastructure, and data systems could prove challenging.
The sector also noted the possibility of increased litigation if motorists challenge automated penalties in court, adding pressure on the Judiciary’s already heavy case load.
FPTS said a consultative meeting involving NTSA, the National Police Service, and the Judiciary of Kenya is necessary to clarify enforcement rules before the instant fines system fully reshapes traffic management across the country.
