The National Transport and Safety Authority has placed a temporary ban on issuing licenses to new public service vehicle operators across Kenya, citing safety gaps, compliance failures, and the need for wider sector reforms.
According to a public notice released on 19 June 2026, NTSA is acting under powers granted by the NTSA Act of 2012 and the NTSA PSV Regulations of 2014. The suspension covers three main areas. First, NTSA will not license new transport operators, including Saccos, companies, or individual PSV owners, for the next 24 months.
Second, the Authority has frozen the creation of new routes and extensions to current ones for 12 months. The only exception will be routes on newly commissioned roads.
Third, any changes to existing routes, such as shifting pick-up or drop-off points, are also on hold for 12 months.
NTSA said the move was prompted by “persistent violations of safety rules” and “the rise of unlicensed operators who create safety hazards, fuel insecurity, and compete unfairly with compliant operators.” The Authority also pointed to inconsistent services caused by frequent route changes and its plan to upgrade transport management systems.
During the moratorium, NTSA said it will partner with county governments and industry players to carry out a full audit of road safety compliance and traffic flow. It will also help current operators raise service standards and map out stable, profitable routes.
“No applications for new PSV operator licenses will be received or processed during this period.” The freeze applies to all new applicants. Existing operators can continue running, but must meet all safety, licensing, and operational rules
NTSA has called on investors and operators to submit ideas for improving road safety and public transport management while the review is ongoing.
The changes take effect from 19 June 2026.
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