- Mandatory vehicle inspections will begin on july 1, 2026
- The programme will be rolled out in all counties nationwide
- Private vehicles older than four years will be affected
- Commercial vehicles, school buses, and PSVs must undergo regular checks
- The government says the move aims to improve road safety and reduce accidents
- Inspection centres will operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model
The Kenyan government has officially announced that mandatory vehicle inspections will begin nationwide starting July 1, 2026, as part of efforts to improve road safety and eliminate unroadworthy vehicles from Kenyan roads.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed the new directive, saying motorists will now access inspection services closer to their locations instead of travelling to a limited number of NTSA centres.
According to the Transport Ministry, the inspection programme will be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework involving both the government and private investors. The move is expected to increase efficiency and reduce congestion currently experienced at existing inspection stations.
The announcement follows concerns raised by William Ruto over delays in implementing the national vehicle inspection system. Chirchir said the gazettement process has already been completed, while the government continues to work with the National Transport and Safety Authority to finalize licensing rules and operational guidelines for inspection centres.
Vehicles That Will Be Inspected
Under the proposed regulations, several categories of vehicles will be required to undergo regular inspections, including:
- Private vehicles older than four years
- Commercial vehicles
- Public Service Vehicles (PSVs)
- School buses
The government says the inspections are aimed at ensuring vehicles meet minimum safety standards before being allowed on Kenyan roads.
Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar stated that investors have until July 1 to establish inspection centres across the country ahead of the official launch.
Government Push for Digital Transport Reforms
The inspection rollout is also part of broader transport sector reforms being introduced by the government. These include digital systems such as e-logbooks and smart traffic cameras aimed at improving compliance and reducing corruption within the transport sector.
Officials believe the reforms will strengthen traffic law enforcement, improve service delivery, and help reduce the rising number of road accidents reported across the country.
