The government has clarified that the upcoming Instant Fines System is primarily a road safety initiative rather than a revenue-generating scheme. This response comes amid public concerns about the system's intentions.

In a submission to the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure, Roads Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir emphasized that the system forms part of broader reforms under the National Road Safety Action Plan (2024-2028), the Road Safety Investment Plan (2025), and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Strategic Plan.

Focus on Reducing Road Fatalities and Corruption

The ministry highlighted the significant toll of road crashes on Kenya's economy and public health, estimating losses of approximately Sh1.356 trillion in 2024—about 8.2% of GDP. Vulnerable groups, including pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists, account for nearly 73% of road deaths.

Without intervention, fatalities are projected to rise by 15% by 2030, increasing economic losses to 9.3% of GDP. The government aims to halve road deaths by 2030, which would save thousands of lives and reduce economic impact.

Technology-Driven Enforcement

Chirchir noted the adoption of the internationally recognized Safe System Approach, which integrates safer roads, vehicles, speeds, user behavior, and enforcement. The Instant Fines System leverages technology to curb dangerous driving behaviors like speeding and reckless driving.

The ministry assured that the framework includes safeguards to protect motorists' rights to fair hearings. Digital evidence and automated processes are intended to reduce disputes, bribery, and selective enforcement by traffic officers.

Alignment with National Digital and Safety Strategies

The reforms align with the government's Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), prioritizing safer, efficient, technology-driven transport services. The Instant Fines System is part of Kenya's broader digital transformation efforts in transport management, aiming to boost transparency, regulatory compliance, and data-driven decision-making.

It complements ongoing measures such as improved road infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and enhanced post-crash emergency response.

Next Steps and Public Debate

The Transport Committee will review the ministry's explanations alongside stakeholder concerns, including constitutional rights and parliamentary oversight issues, before making recommendations on the system.

The government maintains that technology-enabled enforcement is critical to achieving national goals of reducing road fatalities and economic losses caused by crashes.