The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is expected to collect at least Sh12 billion annually from the rollout of mandatory annual vehicle inspections, which officially begin on July 1. 
By Fredrick Kioko,
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is expected to collect at least Sh12 billion annually from the rollout of mandatory annual vehicle inspections, which officially begin on July 1.
Under the new directive, owners of vehicles older than four years will be required to undergo an annual inspection to assess the roadworthiness and safety of their vehicles. Motorists must first book an inspection appointment through the eCitizen portal before presenting their vehicles at designated inspection centres.
The exercise is part of the government's efforts to enhance road safety, reduce accidents caused by mechanically defective vehicles, and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
According to the new fee structure, motorcycle owners will pay Sh200 as a booking fee and another Sh200 for the inspection, bringing the total cost to Sh400.
Owners of private cars, commercial vehicles, and trailers will pay Sh1,000 for booking and Sh1,000 for the inspection, making the total payable Sh2,000.
Once a booking is completed, applicants will receive an appointment date to present their vehicles for inspection.
Vehicles that successfully meet the required safety standards will be issued with an official inspection report, and an inspection sticker will be affixed to the vehicle as proof of compliance.
However, vehicles that fail the inspection will be issued with a report detailing the identified defects. Owners will be given 14 days to carry out the necessary repairs before returning for a re-inspection. NTSA has indicated that motorists returning within the stipulated period will not be required to pay the booking or inspection fees again.
Failure to comply with the mandatory inspection requirements could attract severe penalties. Offenders risk a fine of up to Sh20,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both, in accordance with the law.
The mandatory inspection programme is expected to significantly increase government revenue while promoting safer roads by ensuring that vehicles operating on Kenyan roads meet the required mechanical and safety standards.
