The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has provided an important update regarding the collection of motor vehicle number plates. In a statement released on May 9, 2025, the authority confirmed that the previous shortage of digital number plates had been resolved. Vehicle owners and dealers who have received SMS notifications are now encouraged to collect their plates from their designated collection centres.
The shortage of number plates had been an ongoing issue, but NTSA Board Chair, Hon. Khatib Mwashetani, confirmed that a significant consignment of number plates had been delivered to the authority. The authority dispatched over 5,000 vehicle number plates from their Nairobi head office to various collection centres across the country in an effort to clear the backlog that had been affecting registered vehicle owners.
Mwashetani acknowledged the challenges the authority faced earlier in the week, noting that technical issues had temporarily hindered the timely distribution of the plates. However, he expressed satisfaction that these challenges had now been addressed, and the authority had resumed normal operations. The NTSA chairperson emphasized that the dedicated efforts of the team played a pivotal role in resolving the situation.
The backlog issue had left many vehicle owners waiting for their number plates for extended periods, some for several months. However, with the resolution of the shortage, the NTSA is encouraging those who have been notified to act quickly and collect their plates. The number plates, which had been sitting in NTSA offices, are now available for distribution, and NTSA staff are ready to facilitate a smooth process for collection.
In the same update, Mwashetani outlined the authority’s commitment to improving service delivery and enhancing the efficiency of the vehicle registration process. As part of ongoing reforms within the transport sector, the NTSA has set a new goal of processing number plate applications within two working days. This new target is aimed at reducing delays and ensuring that vehicle owners receive their plates promptly after registration. Mwashetani emphasized that these efforts are part of the broader reforms aimed at boosting public confidence in the NTSA’s services, ensuring that citizens benefit fully from the taxes they pay.
The recent efforts by NTSA reflect an increased focus on improving the experience of Kenyan vehicle owners. Mwashetani also noted that the authority’s recent reforms include streamlining the application and delivery processes to prevent future delays. This initiative has been well received, as many vehicle owners had become frustrated with the prolonged wait times for number plates.
In addition to improving the registration and distribution of number plates, NTSA has also forged a partnership with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). This partnership aims to enhance the efficiency of traffic-related case processing by facilitating the sharing of resources and evidence. This collaboration is expected to streamline the judicial processes associated with traffic violations, ensuring that cases are handled more effectively.
The authority’s strategic focus on modernizing and improving the public transport system in Kenya is expected to further enhance the overall efficiency of the sector. By resolving the number plate shortage, expediting applications, and collaborating with the ODPP, NTSA is signaling a commitment to enhancing the quality of services for all road users in the country. The board chairperson’s statement reflects a commitment to delivering timely and efficient services while also encouraging a collaborative approach to tackling issues in the transport sector.
NTSA’s work is crucial in maintaining road safety and ensuring that vehicle registration processes run smoothly. With the resolution of the number plate shortage and the ongoing reforms, the authority is hopeful that it can continue to build trust with the public and improve the overall transportation system in Kenya.
