The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a strong warning to all Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators, owners, and drivers over increasing levels of non-compliance with key transport regulations. In a directive dated May 27, 2025, the Authority demanded immediate adherence to the standards set under the Operations of Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014, citing widespread violations that compromise safety and transparency in the sector.
The NTSA highlighted a disturbing trend of commuter vehicles flouting regulations, particularly those related to branding and identification. Numerous PSVs have been found displaying unauthorized graffiti and artistic enhancements, which obscure critical information such as the official name of the licensed Sacco or company, designated routes, and the mandatory yellow line that identifies licensed public service vehicles. Such modifications, the NTSA warned, not only violate legal requirements but also erode public trust in the sector, making it difficult to trace the responsible operators in cases of misconduct or accidents.
According to the directive, the branding and name of the licensed operator must be the most prominent visual marker on any PSV. Any additional logos or markings related to partnerships or franchises must remain secondary and should not overshadow the primary operator’s identity. The Authority further noted that some PSVs are operating without displaying the official NTSA operational sticker or other required identification, making regulatory enforcement more difficult and weakening passenger safety mechanisms.
In response to these violations, all PSV operators have been ordered to undertake an immediate and thorough audit of their vehicle fleets. The NTSA emphasized that all vehicles must clearly display the operator’s name on all visible sides, adhere to uniform branding across the fleet, and remove any unauthorized artwork or decorative elements. This measure aims to enhance consistency, ensure regulatory compliance, and support better accountability in the sector.
Beyond vehicle appearance, the directive also addresses issues of personnel conduct and documentation. All drivers and conductors are required to wear the designated uniforms and must be in possession of valid driving licenses and PSV badges at all times while on duty. The NTSA reiterated that the playing of music during transit must conform to the permissible volume levels set by law to maintain passenger comfort and prevent distractions that could lead to accidents.
Additionally, the NTSA flagged concerns over a number of PSVs operating with expired Road Service Licences (RSL), outdated inspection certificates, and drivers without current PSV badges. To rectify this, operators have been instructed to log in to the NTSA Service Portal to renew all expired documentation and schedule necessary vehicle inspections without delay.
Failure to comply with the NTSA’s directives will attract severe consequences. These include impoundment of non-compliant vehicles, suspension or revocation of operating licenses, and denial of access to NTSA digital services. Such measures are intended to enforce accountability and protect the integrity of Kenya’s public transportation network.
The NTSA has urged all stakeholders in the public transport industry to act swiftly and implement the necessary corrections to avoid punitive action. By doing so, operators will contribute to a safer, more reliable, and better-regulated transport system for all Kenyans.
