NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya National Highways Authority has extended expired truck permits by two weeks following a system failure that has disrupted the issuance of exemption permits across the country.
In a notice issued on May 27, KeNHA said all trucks holding expired permits will be allowed to continue operating until June 9 under the same cargo conditions specified in their original approvals.
System Downtime Disrupts Permit Issuance
KeNHA said the extension was necessitated by an ongoing downtime in its digital permit system, which has prevented transporters from applying for or renewing exemption permits.
“The Kenya National Highways Authority wishes to inform Transporters that Issuance of Exemption Permits has been affected owing to the ongoing permit system downtime,” the authority stated.
It added that the extension is intended to ease disruptions in cargo movement while technical teams work to restore the system.
Temporary Manual Clearance Introduced
With the online system unavailable, KeNHA has introduced a manual verification process to ensure the continued movement of goods.
Under the arrangement, vehicle inspectors are required to physically inspect trucks to verify their dimensions before clearance is granted.
After inspection, stations will tag vehicles and issue release documents detailing truck specifications and applicable charges.
“The tags should capture the dimensions and charges payable, and should be closed once transporters obtain their permits when the system is back online,” KeNHA said.
Abnormal Load Operators Directed to Email Applications
Transporters handling abnormal or oversized cargo have been excluded from the standard manual process and are required to submit applications via email to kenhapermits@kenha.co.ke.
KeNHA said designated superintendents will review the applications and provide tailored guidance for each case.
“Abnormal load applicants should send their application email to kenhapermits@kenha.co.ke for further advice after review by the Superintendents,” the authority directed.
Relief for Transport Sector
Exemption permits are mandatory for heavy and oversized trucks operating on Kenyan roads, particularly those exceeding axle load or dimensional limits.
The temporary extension is expected to prevent supply chain disruptions, particularly in the transport of goods across major highways and regional corridors.
KeNHA assured stakeholders that all manual tags and interim release documents will be formally closed and updated once the digital system is fully restored.
