A proposed amendment to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Act aims to curb unpredictable fare increases in Kenya's public transport sector. The bill, sponsored by Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, would grant NTSA the authority to regulate matatu fares, set review mechanisms, and protect passengers from unfair charges.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023, seeks to introduce policy guidelines governing how fares are determined across the country. It would empower the Cabinet Secretary, in consultation with NTSA, to set maximum and minimum fares for public service vehicles and establish a framework for fare reviews.

Key Provisions of the Bill

  • Public transport operators must display fare details clearly for passengers.
  • Operators required to keep copies of timetables and fare tables visible to commuters.
  • Creation of formal channels for passengers to report overcharging.
  • Measures to guarantee passenger safety and dignity during travel.

MP Barasa emphasized the need to protect commuters from arbitrary fare hikes, noting that unlike other regulated commodities such as fuel and sugarcane, public transport fares have remained volatile and unpredictable. "A Kenyan who leaves home with Sh100 for fare often does not know how much they will pay later in the day," he said, adding that the bill will bring fairness and enable better budgeting for commuters.

Several lawmakers supported the bill, highlighting that regulating public transport fares is a matter of public interest. Kesses MP Julius Ruto stressed the importance of an organized system that safeguards the welfare of ordinary citizens. Tigania West MP John Mutunga pointed out inconsistencies where fares rise with fuel prices but do not decrease when fuel costs fall. Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi called for a structured public transport system and urged regulation of driver conduct to ensure passengers are treated respectfully.

Despite broad support, the bill has faced some opposition. Former Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen recommended further research and stakeholder engagement before implementing price controls, citing concerns over compliance with existing treaties and conventions.

The bill also addresses the role of county governments in transport matters and asserts it will not require additional public funding. If enacted, Kenya would join countries like Ghana, Rwanda, and Germany in having government-regulated public transport fares.

Previous attempts to regulate fares have failed, but this bill represents renewed efforts to bring order to Kenya's public transport pricing and enhance commuter protection.