NTSA Seeks to Retain Sh3bn for Road Safety Programmes

• NTSA seeks to retain Sh3 billion in own-source revenue for road safety programmes.
• The funds will be used to implement compliance checks, digital number plates, and TIMS system enhancement.
• Committee members support NTSA's request for greater financial autonomy to address road deaths.
• Lawmakers urge NTSA to work closely with other road agencies to identify roads requiring attention.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has submitted a request to the National Assembly's Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure to retain Sh3 billion in own-source revenue. This move aims to fund road safety programmes, including enforcement, public education, and data systems aimed at reducing road fatalities. NTSA Director General Nahashon Kodhiwa emphasized the need for sufficient funding to effectively handle the sector, citing that the authority generates between Sh9 billion and Sh10 billion annually in own-source revenue but only accesses a small percentage of it.

The request by NTSA to retain Sh3 billion is part of its bid for greater financial autonomy. This move has been supported by the committee, with Chairman George Kariuki stating that lawmakers would support NTSA's request to help address road deaths. The committee's decision highlights the importance of adequate funding in implementing road safety regulations and initiatives. NTSA's own-source revenue is generated through various means, including fees for services such as vehicle registration and licensing.

The retention of Sh3 billion by NTSA will have significant implications for road safety in Kenya. The funds will be used to implement compliance checks, roll out digital number plates, enhance the TIMS system, and conduct road safety campaigns. Committee members emphasized the need for NTSA to work closely with other road agencies to identify roads requiring attention and streamline operations in sectors such as boda bodas and matatus. This collaboration is crucial in improving safety, creating jobs, and addressing traffic congestion.

Lawyers should watch for the potential impact of NTSA's bid to retain Sh3bn on their clients' compliance with road safety regulations, particularly in relation to enforcement and public education.

Source: Original reporting via AllAfrica Kenya