The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is under scrutiny by the Senate Standing Committee on Roads and Transportation over significant delays in issuing new-generation vehicle number plates.

Senators raised concerns that many motorists who have completed their vehicle registration and paid all necessary fees are still waiting for their number plates. The issue was highlighted by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, who urged the committee to investigate the reasons behind the backlog and demand detailed information from NTSA.

Senator Nyutu’s Demands

  • Number of pending applications as of July 1, 2026, with county and vehicle category breakdowns.
  • Duration each application has remained unprocessed.
  • Current production capacity and plans to modernize or expand number plate production and distribution.
  • Procurement details of raw materials used in manufacturing number plates.
  • Measures by the Ministry of Roads and Transport and NTSA to clear the backlog.

Nyutu emphasized that motorists should not be penalized for delays caused by government inefficiencies.

Broader Concerns Raised by Senators

Other senators voiced additional concerns about NTSA’s accountability and regulatory practices. Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo criticized the authority for implementing regulations without parliamentary approval and highlighted the Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation's recommendation to annul some NTSA rules introduced during parliamentary recess.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka called for a probe into NTSA’s leadership and financial management, including funds collected from services such as speed governors.

Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang noted the impact of delays on vehicle importers, with some vehicles stuck at the Port of Mombasa and storage facilities due to unissued number plates, increasing costs and operational challenges.

Next Steps

The Senate committee is set to investigate the root causes of the delays, assess the backlog's scope, and recommend solutions to improve the issuance process for vehicle number plates in Kenya.