As thousands of Kenyans take to the roads for Christmas and New Year celebrations, traffic enforcement agencies have moved swiftly to clamp down on lawlessness along major highways. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), in collaboration with the National Police Service and the Judiciary, has deployed mobile courts to instantly penalise motorists who flout traffic regulations during the festive rush.
The intensified enforcement comes at a time when holiday travel traditionally leads to a spike in road accidents, with congestion, speeding and drink-driving posing major risks. Authorities say offenders are being fined on the spot for a wide range of violations, a move aimed at discouraging reckless behaviour and improving overall road safety.
The crackdown also coincides with the Cabinet’s December 16 approval of the rollout of second-generation smart driving licences. The new system introduces instant fines, a mobile licence wallet and a merit-and-demerit points framework, significantly changing how traffic offences are managed in the country.
NTSA says the joint operation prioritises accident reduction while sensitising motorists against avoidable offences such as overspeeding and driving under the influence of alcohol. “Driving under the influence severely impairs judgment, slows reaction times and compromises vehicle control,” the authority noted, reaffirming its commitment to heightened enforcement during the festive season and beyond.
Under the Traffic Act, minor offences are prosecuted under Section 117, which provides for instant fines ranging from Sh500 to Sh10,000 depending on the violation. Offences attracting the maximum fine include speeding beyond prescribed limits, driving without number plates or inspection certificates, employing unlicensed PSV staff, and operating vehicles without speed governors.
Lower-tier offences cover violations such as mobile phone use while driving, failure to wear seat belts, improper passenger conduct, and failure to wear protective gear for motorcyclists.
Authorities have warned that enforcement will remain strict throughout the holidays, urging all road users – including pedestrians – to observe traffic laws to ensure safer journeys for everyone.