The National Transport and Safety Authority has put forward two groundbreaking safety initiatives that are set to transform the landscape of commercial vehicle operations in Kenya.
The Draft National Transport and Safety Authority (Operation of Commercial Service Vehicles) Regulations, 2025, introduces a crucial requirement for commercial service vehicles to be equipped with underride protection devices (UPDs).
This implementation of UPDs marks a significant advancement for commercial vehicles in Kenya.
These devices are designed to enhance the safety of interactions between passenger vehicles and larger trucks or trailers during various types of collisions, including head-on, rear-end, or side impacts. They effectively reduce the likelihood of smaller vehicles sliding beneath larger ones in the event of an accident.
According to the proposal, “The Draft Regulations stipulate that every commercial service vehicle must be fitted with underride protection devices on both the rear and sides, where applicable, in accordance with the relevant Kenyan Standards set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards.”
In addition, the NTSA has recommended the compulsory installation of a vehicular telematics system, which will enable fleet managers to optimize the performance of their commercial vehicles.
The proposal states, “As part of the responsibilities of Commercial Service Vehicle Operators, the Draft National Transport and Safety Authority (Operation of Commercial Service Vehicles) Regulations, 2025, mandates that each commercial vehicle must be equipped with a vehicular telematics system that complies with the applicable Kenyan Standards as outlined by the Kenya Bureau of Standards.”
Telematics systems are essential for collecting vital data such as vehicle location, driver behavior, engine diagnostics, and overall vehicle performance. They utilize Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, sensors, and engine data to gather this information effectively.
Data collected from vehicles is temporarily stored in telematics devices installed in each unit. This information is then securely transmitted via private cellular networks to dedicated servers.
This centralized data hub empowers fleet management software to deliver clear visualizations, enabling fleet managers to enhance the efficiency of their commercial vehicle operations.
Telematics devices are already in use by taxi-hailing services, where they connect seamlessly to in-cab driver interfaces.
These devices facilitate various functions for cab drivers and passengers, including receiving trip requests, documenting proof of delivery, conducting pre-trip inspections, and providing real-time feedback on driving performance and experiences.
Additionally, the NTSA has proposed that commercial vehicles must feature retro-reflective contour markings with a minimum width of two inches, adhering to the Kenyan Standard as outlined by the Kenya Bureau of Standards, as detailed in the Second Schedule.
Furthermore, commercial vehicles are required to carry a fully functional fire extinguisher, positioned for immediate accessibility at all times.
In the event of a breakdown, drivers of commercial vehicles must place two red reflecting triangles on the road, at least fifty meters from the vehicle. One triangle should be positioned in front and the other behind the vehicle, ensuring visibility for approaching drivers from both directions, as recommended by the NTSA.
