CS Chirchir supports annual inspection of all vehicles, says centres to cost Ksh.300M

Chirchir disclosed this while appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Delegated Legislation, where lawmakers reviewed a raft of proposed traffic regulations aimed at improving safety standards and strengthening enforcement on Kenyan roads.

The meeting, chaired by Samuel Chepkonga, examined the proposed Traffic (Commercial Service Vehicle) Rules, 2026, Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2026, Traffic (Motor Vehicle Inspection) Rules, 2026, and the Traffic (Drink Driving) Regulations, 2026.

According to the Ministry of Roads and Transport and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the regulations are intended to address the rising number of road crashes involving both commercial and private vehicles.

Speaking before the committee, Chirchir defended the proposed changes, saying they are necessary to modernise the transport sector and improve accountability among motorists and operators.

“These regulations are intended to ensure that only roadworthy vehicles operate on Kenyan roads while strengthening accountability among operators and improving public safety,” said Chirchir.

The CS noted that due to the high cost of establishing inspection facilities, the government plans to decentralise vehicle inspection services through licensed private centres across the country.

Under the proposed rules, private vehicles older than four years will now be subjected to mandatory inspections annually instead of the current two-year inspection cycle.

NTSA says the move will help detect mechanical defects earlier and improve compliance with road safety standards.

The Authority further noted that commercial service vehicles continue to contribute significantly to fatal road accidents due to factors such as driver fatigue, poor maintenance, overloading, weak enforcement and limited adoption of modern safety technologies.

Committee Vice Chairperson Robert Gichimu questioned whether the government has adequate capacity to roll out inspection services across all 47 counties without overreliance on private investors.

“Does the government have sufficient capacity to roll out inspections countrywide, or will the Ministry require a grace period to ensure inspection centres are fully operational?” Gichimu posed. 

At the same time, Chepkonga raised concerns over delays in removing stalled vehicles from roads, warning that the situation has contributed to fatal accidents on highways.

“You need to address the issue of how long it should take to remove a stalled vehicle from the road. There should be a clearly defined minimum response period,” Chepkonga noted.

Chirchir assured the committee that the Ministry would undertake nationwide public awareness campaigns before implementing the regulations.

“We have taken note of all your sentiments and input. We will continue engaging this Committee to ensure the regulations are practical and effective,” he stated.