The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has granted a two-week extension to expired truck permits, providing relief to transporters affected by an ongoing system failure that has prevented the issuance of exemption permits.
According to a notice released by the transport authority on May 27, trucks with expired permits will continue operating on Kenyan roads until June 9, under the same cargo conditions specified in their original permits.
“The Kenya National Highways Authority wishes to inform Transporters that Issuance of Exemption Permits has been affected due to the ongoing permit system downtime,” stated KeNHA.
“Trucks with expired permits have been granted a two-week extension for the cargo described in the permit. This exemption will apply until June 9, 2026.”
As of Wednesday, May 27, KeNHA’s online permit system remained non-functional, leaving transporters unable to process applications or renew their exemption permits through the digital channels they typically use.
For drivers and operators requiring urgent permits, KeNHA has implemented a manual process to keep goods moving across the country during the system outage.
Under this arrangement, Vehicle Inspectors must physically inspect each truck to verify its exact dimensions before it can proceed with any consignment.
After the physical inspection, stations will tag the vehicles and issue special release documents that specify the required actions, the truck’s dimensions, and the charges the transporter must pay.
“The tags should capture the dimensions and charges payable, and should be closed once transporters obtain their permits when the system is back online,” stated KeNHA.
Transporters handling abnormal loads must follow a separate procedure, as they are not covered by the standard manual processes applied to regular trucks.
These operators are instructed to send their application details directly via email to kenhapermits@kenha.co.ke, where designated KeNHA Superintendents will review each submission and provide personalized guidance.
“Abnormal load applicants should send their application email to kenhapermits@kenha.co.ke for further advice after review by the Superintendents,” KeNHA directed, encouraging all affected operators to contact them as soon as possible.
Exemption permits are essential for legally allowing trucks to transport cargo on roads where strict axle load or dimension limits would otherwise prevent their movement.
KeNHA has assured the transport industry that all special tags and release documents issued during this period will be formally updated and closed once the permit system is fully restored.