New Traffic Rules to Shake Up Road Safety Standards in Kenya

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has unveiled draft traffic regulations aimed at enhancing road safety and streamlining vehicle operations across the country. The proposed rules, published in the Kenya Gazette, cover key areas including drink-driving, vehicle inspections, school transport, and commercial vehicles.

Under the proposed regulations, vehicle inspections will become mandatory for vehicles older than four years. The rules particularly target school buses, commercial vehicles, and public service vehicles (PSVs). Post-accident vehicles, salvaged vehicles, and those undergoing ownership or information changes will also require inspections. Licensed private centers will oversee these checks, issuing standard stickers to compliant vehicles.

For school transport, the rules introduce stringent measures to ensure the safety of students. All school transport providers and vehicles must be licensed, equipped with seat belts, fire extinguishers, and tracking systems. Drivers, attendants, and crossing guards must meet specific qualifications, while school buses must display designated color coding and signage. Private use of school vehicles will only be allowed with a temporary license.

The regulations also address drink-driving with defined legal alcohol limits for all drivers. Testing can be conducted through breathalyzers, blood, or urine samples. Refusing a test could result in penalties, while repeat offenders risk suspension or cancellation of their licenses.

Commercial vehicle operators will also face new standards, including mandatory licensing for owners, drivers, and operators. Vehicles must be fitted with speed governors, telematics, and underride devices. Additionally, driver working hours will be regulated, and safety training will be mandatory for compliance with conduct rules.

These comprehensive measures, once enacted, are expected to significantly reduce road accidents and enhance safety standards nationwide.