The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has summoned nine public service vehicle operators over serious safety concerns observed in their operations across the country.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 31, the Authority said the firms had been called upon to respond to concerns raised following its monitoring of public service vehicles. NTSA said the summons were issued as part of its mandate to promote safety and ensure compliance with transport regulations.
Moyalé Raha Transporter’s Company Limited has been directed to appear before the Authority on September 3, while the other eight operators are expected to appear on September 8.
The firms include Etams Classic Limited, Eastern Link Travellers Company Limited and Manchester Travellers Coach Limited.
Also summoned are Lake Naivasha Mai-Mahiu Line Service Limited, Sabaki Travellers Saving and Credit Co-operative Society Limited, Lumasa County Sacco, Bluemarks Shuttles Sacco Limited and Nyamira Luxury Express Company Limited.
Most of the listed saccos operate outside Nairobi and provide long-distance transport services between the capital and different counties.
Their vehicles carry thousands of passengers every day, making compliance with road safety rules important in reducing crashes and protecting travellers.
Long-distance public transport operators continue to face several safety challenges. Some drivers may speed while trying to keep up with demanding schedules, while cases of overloading passengers and luggage can increase the risks on the roads.
Driver fatigue is another concern, particularly where drivers work for long periods without taking the required breaks. Fatigued driving can affect concentration and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of crashes.
Other risks include dangerous overtaking on narrow or winding roads and the use of vehicles that are not properly maintained. Worn-out tyres, defective brakes and faulty lights can make already dangerous road conditions worse.
Failure by passengers and operators to enforce seatbelt use also remains a concern.
The summons come amid rising concern over road safety in the country.
NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa reported an 11 per cent increase in road traffic deaths, with 2,150 people losing their lives between January and June 2026.Pedestrians recorded the highest number of fatalities at about 836, followed by motorcyclists and passengers.
Kiambu, Nairobi and Nakuru have continued to record high numbers of road deaths, partly due to heavy traffic and rapid urbanisation.
Beyond the loss of lives, road crashes also impose a major economic burden on the country.
NTSA estimates that crashes cost Kenya about five per cent of its gross domestic product every year through medical expenses, damage to property and lost productivity.
