The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has temporarily reinstated operations for 263 vehicles belonging to Naekana Route 134 Sacco, pending compliance with regulatory requirements set by the Transport Licensing Appeals Board (TLAB).
The Authority said the relief remains in force until Monday, January 26, 2026, giving the Sacco time to submit a compliance matrix outlining corrective safety measures. NTSA noted that once the submission is reviewed, TLAB will issue further directions on the matter.
ALSO READ Police Search for Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja After Senate Orders Arrest
However, NTSA clarified that 128 vehicles previously identified for safety concerns remain barred from operating as public service vehicles. Enforcement officers have been directed to impound any of these non-compliant units found ferrying passengers.
According to NTSA, the Sacco has yet to meet several key safety conditions. The regulator also confirmed that its online service portal has been opened to allow operators to complete compliance requirements within the set timeline.
The temporary reprieve follows an appeal filed before TLAB under Appeal Case No. TLAB/E001/2026. NTSA emphasised that the lifting of the suspension is conditional and does not amount to full reinstatement.
Background to the Suspension
The move comes after NTSA intensified enforcement against long-distance public transport operators following multiple fatal crashes during the December 2025 festive season.
On January 19, 2026, the Authority suspended operating licences for four long-distance Saccos:
- Naekana Route 134
- Monna Comfort
- Greenline Company
- Uwezo Coast
The suspensions were issued for failure to comply with KS 2295-2023 safety standards and provisions under the NTSA (Operation of PSV Regulations) 2014.
Naekana’s suspension followed a fatal crash on January 2, 2026, along the Mombasa–Nairobi Highway near Konza. The Sacco was instructed to:
- Inspect 128 vehicles for compliance
- Remove 18 drivers linked to the crash and other violations
Meanwhile, Uwezo Coast Shuttle was suspended after a separate fatal accident on January 6, 2026, along the Muhoroni–Londiani Road. NTSA said the operator failed to honour summons issued by the Authority.
Commuter Impact
The partial lifting of the suspension offers limited relief for passengers relying on Naekana Route 134, particularly those travelling along long-distance routes. However, reduced fleet availability means:
- Fewer vehicles on the road
- Possible fare fluctuations
- Longer waiting times during peak hours
- Increased pressure on alternative operators
Actionable Advice for Commuters
- Arrive earlier at boarding points to avoid delays
- Confirm Sacco vehicle compliance before boarding
- Consider alternative operators if queues are long
- Avoid overcrowded vehicles for safety reasons
- Monitor updates from NTSA and Sacco management
NTSA reiterated that enforcement will remain strict, warning that any non-compliant vehicles will be removed from service immediately.
Source: The Eastleigh Voice
