- NTSA issued a road safety reminder to drivers following the conclusion of a week-long public transport operators' training programme
- The authority urged drivers to inspect brakes, tyres, lights, and side mirrors before every trip
- The capacity building exercise, which began in September, covered finance, journey planning, and fleet management across the country
TUKO.co.ke journalist Japhet Ruto has over eight years of experience in financial, business, and technology reporting, offering insights into Kenyan and global economic trends.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has urged Kenyan drivers to carry out vehicle checks before starting any journey, warning that neglected components pose a serious risk to road users.
Source: Facebook
The reminder came after the authority wrapped up a week-long capacity building programme for public service vehicle (PSV) operators, covering SACCO management teams and drivers.
Participants were issued with certificates upon completion of the training, which was held in Nairobi and in various regions across the country.
What NTSA told drivers to inspect
The authority specifically called on drivers to confirm that their brakes, tyres, lights, and side mirrors are in proper working condition before departing.
"Safiri salama, fika salama! Ensure your vehicle is fully serviced and parts like brakes, tyres, lights, and side mirrors are in top shape before hitting the road. Let's look out for our little ones and keep every trip safe," NTSA stated.
The appeal also placed emphasis on child safety, reflecting concern about accidents involving young pedestrians and passengers.
The training programme, which kicked off in September, has been conducted progressively across the country as part of NTSA's weekly capacity building schedule.
Operators received instruction in financial management, journey planning, and general fleet management, among other areas considered critical to professional PSV operations.
What are other NTSA requirements?
Beyond vehicle checks, NTSA maintains several regulatory requirements that drivers and operators must meet before operating on Kenyan roads.
PSV drivers are required to hold a valid PSV badge, a document issued by the authority that certifies a driver has undergone the necessary vetting and is authorised to carry passengers for hire. A valid driving licence (DL) appropriate for the class of vehicle being operated is equally mandatory.
Vehicles operating under PSV licences must also meet roadworthiness standards, with operators expected to ensure their fleets are regularly inspected and certified.
The authority periodically conducts crackdowns targeting non-compliant operators, with particular focus on peak travel periods when roads are most congested.
Source: TUKO.co.ke