Roads and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has clarified why patrol vehicles used by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) carry private number plates, stating that the vehicles are not government-owned but belong to contractors hired under performance-based maintenance contracts.
Chirchir was responding in the Senate to concerns raised by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, who questioned the ownership and procurement of the vehicles operating under KeNHA’s authority on major highways.
“Why does the Kenya National Highways Authority use privately owned motor vehicles for patrols on highways? Who owns these patrol vehicles, and how are their services procured?” Nyutu asked.
In response, Chirchir explained that KeNHA outsources patrol and maintenance duties on key roads, such as Thika Road and the Nairobi Southern Bypass, to private contractors. These contractors are selected through a competitive process aligned with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015.
“The patrol vehicles are owned by performance-based contractors who are assigned maintenance contracts through a competitive process,” said Chirchir. “These vehicles remain privately registered for the duration of the contracts.”
He detailed that the contractors’ responsibilities include routine patrols to monitor traffic compliance, quick response to incidents and breakdowns, protection of road infrastructure such as guardrails and streetlights, and assistance to motorists in need.
According to the CS, this model enhances efficiency and safety on high-traffic roads by leveraging private sector resources and expertise.
“This arrangement ensures efficient maintenance while enhancing overall road safety,” he noted.
Chirchir also clarified that KeNHA has no plans to purchase its own patrol fleet. Instead, contractors are required to supply and maintain their own vehicles as part of their contractual duties.
“The authority does not intend to procure its own patrol vehicles. Contractors are expected to use their own equipment,” he said.
However, he added that KeNHA personnel use officially registered government vehicles when conducting inspections and oversight duties, maintaining a clear separation between operational and supervisory roles.
