Mandere Onyinkwa reports that the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) will implement a new digital enforcement initiative for minor traffic violations.
This development aims to minimize court proceedings and update traffic law enforcement practices across the country.
According to a press release issued Thursday, NTSA confirmed that the new system will commence on June 1, 2026, as stipulated by Section 117 and 117A of the Traffic Act (Cap. 403).
NTSA explained that the framework resulted from collaborative discussions with the National Police Service (NPS), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Judiciary, and other enforcement bodies, following the withdrawal of a previous notice concerning the Minor Traffic Offences System.
The authority stated that the new initiative aims to “improve road safety for all road users,” increase adherence to traffic regulations, alleviate overcrowding in traffic courts, and foster “greater transparency, accountability, and efficiency in traffic enforcement.”
Under this updated approach, drivers accused of specific minor traffic violations will not face immediate court appearances.
Instead, they will receive a Police Notification of Traffic Offence after adequate evidence has been collected.
NTSA indicated that violations can be identified through physical inspections conducted by police officers or electronically via traffic cameras and other digital surveillance methods.
The announcement specified that “once adequate evidence has been collected, the notification will be dispatched to the driver or the registered vehicle owner.”
The authority further mentioned that notifications may be delivered personally by officers, attached to vehicles, or electronically through SMS, email, and authorized digital traffic enforcement platforms.
Drivers have been advised to verify that their contact details in the NTSA registration system remain current and accurate.
Each notification will include information about the violation type, the date, time, and location of the incident, the applicable penalty, payment procedures, and response timelines.
NTSA clarified that upon receiving a notification, drivers will have two choices: either acknowledge responsibility and pay the specified fine within the given timeframe or contest the allegation in court.
The authority explained that “should the driver opt to pay the fine, the matter can be resolved without requiring a court appearance.”
However, NTSA cautioned that non-response, non-payment of fines, or failure to appear in court when summoned may result in more severe penalties from the judiciary.
Drivers will also retain the right to access corroborating evidence, including photographs or video recordings associated with the alleged violations.
The authority additionally reassured Kenyan citizens that all personal information gathered under this system will be managed in compliance with the Constitution and the Data Protection Act.
NTSA mentioned that a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document regarding the minor traffic offences framework is accessible on their website for public reference.