The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has suspended the licensing of new public service vehicle operators for 24 months, effective June 19, 2026.
NTSA citied persistent road safety breaches and the proliferation of illegal operators as the main reason for the move.
In a public notice issued under the NTSA Act, 2012 and the NTSA (Operation of Public Service Vehicles) Regulations, 2014, the Authority said the temporary moratorium will also halt the addition of new routes and extensions for 12 months, as well as any modification of existing licensed routes, including changes to pick-up and drop-off points, for the same period.
According to the notice, three areas are affected:
- Licensing of new PSV operators, including Saccos and companies – 24 months
- Addition of new routes and extension of existing routes – 12 months, subject to review if a new road is commissioned
- Modification or reconfiguration of existing licensed routes – 12 months
NTSA said no new applications for PSV Operator Licenses will be accepted or processed during the moratorium period.
Why NTSA suspended PSV licencing
The Authority attributed the measure to four main factors: persistent non-compliance with safety regulations; the rise of illegal operators who undercut regulated players and create safety risks; the need to strengthen oversight and transport management systems; and inconsistencies caused by frequent route modifications that have made public transport services unreliable.
“During this period, the Authority, in consultation with relevant stakeholders and with the support of County Governments, shall conduct a comprehensive audit of road safety compliance and traffic management,” the notice stated.
NTSA clarified that currently licensed operators will continue to operate, provided they remain compliant with safety, licensing and operational standards.
The Authority will also assist existing operators to improve service standards and work with county governments to redefine “consistent and profitable routes.”
Prospective investors and operators have been encouraged to submit memoranda and proposals to NTSA during the moratorium to promote road safety and improve management of public transport in Kenya.
