The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has placed a temporary ban on licensing new public service transport operators in Kenya, pointing to safety, compliance and wider reforms in the sector.
In a public notice released on 19 June 2026, the Authority said the move is being made under the NTSA Act, 2012 and the NTSA (Operation of Public Service Vehicles) Regulations, 2014.
The ban covers three main areas. NTSA has suspended the licensing of new public transport operators, including Saccos and companies, for 24 months.
The Authority has also halted the opening of new routes and extensions to existing routes for 12 months, except where newly commissioned roads are involved.
It has further frozen changes or reconfiguration of existing routes, including adjustments to pick-up and drop-off points, for 12 months.
NTSA said the decision was prompted by persistent non-compliance and road safety concerns within the sector.
The Authority also cited the growth of illegal operators who undercut regulated players, create serious road safety risks, enable insecurity and compete unfairly with licensed operators.
NTSA further said the measure is linked to plans to strengthen oversight, improve transport management systems and carry out broader reforms in the sector.
It also noted concerns over route modifications that have led to inconsistent and unreliable public transport services.
During the moratorium, NTSA said it will work with county governments and stakeholders to carry out a comprehensive audit of road safety compliance and traffic management.
The Authority said it will also help existing operators improve service standards and support the redefinition of consistent and profitable routes.
The notice states that no new applications for PSV Operator Licences will be accepted or processed during the period.
It adds that the decision applies to all prospective operators seeking to be licensed by the Authority, while existing operators will continue to operate if they comply with safety, licensing and operational standards.
The moratorium takes effect from 19 June 2026.