- NTSA begins free training for thousands of PSV workers
- Drivers and operators to gain new safety and management skills
- Programme targets safer and more professional public transport operations
More than 4,000 participants drawn from Kenya’s public transport sector—including Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers, operators, Savings and Credit Co-operative Organisation (SACCO) managers and supervisors—are set to benefit from free training as the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) steps up efforts to improve road safety, passenger protection and professionalism in the industry.
The programme began on Monday, September 21, 2026, with the first four-day training cohorts in Taita Taveta, Mombasa and Garissa counties.
The initiative targets both the people behind the wheel and those responsible for managing public transport operations, reflecting NTSA’s position that lasting improvements in road safety require changes at both driver and organisational levels.
The training is intended to help shift PSV operations from informal, passenger-chasing practices towards professionally managed businesses that prioritise safety, compliance, quality service and sustainable operations.
Drivers will undergo training in defensive driving, hazard perception, vehicle inspections, emergency response, professional conduct, passenger care, communication, driver wellness and fuel-efficient driving.
The practical focus is designed to help drivers identify risks earlier, make safer decisions on the road and maintain better driving practices. Training in vehicle checks can also help identify mechanical problems before they become a danger to passengers and other road users.
NTSA will also assess participants to identify safety and competency gaps requiring immediate attention.
For operators and Sacco managers, the training will cover strategic leadership, governance, financial management, fleet operations, regulatory compliance, customer experience, technology and sustainable business growth.
This management component is significant because transport safety does not depend solely on a driver’s conduct. Decisions on vehicle maintenance, driver supervision, scheduling, working conditions and compliance can directly influence safety on the road.
Participants will develop 90-day operator improvement plans to translate the training into practical changes within their Saccos and companies.
Selected drivers and operators will also become road safety champions within their organisations, creating a pool of trained personnel who can pass on safety practices to colleagues after the initial training.
NTSA said a Training of Trainers cohort has already completed its programme to support the wider rollout.
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The initiative is being implemented in four phases covering design and baseline assessment, a pilot programme, national scale-up and eventual institutionalisation and sustainability.
The first cohorts have been scheduled ahead of the festive season, when passenger numbers and commercial pressure on PSV operators typically increase. NTSA said lessons from the pilot will help refine the curriculum and trainer deployment before the programme expands to additional counties.
High-risk corridors and high-volume routes will receive priority during the wider rollout.
The authority also plans to collaborate with training institutions to develop professional courses in Public Transport Management and Professional Drivers Certification, creating a longer-term pathway for professional development within the sector.
The programme is expected to strengthen compliance with traffic laws, licensing requirements, vehicle roadworthiness, insurance obligations and passenger-safety standards.
It will also provide practical, sector-informed input into the review of the PSV (Operations) Regulations, 2014, and the broader licensing framework.
NTSA has linked the training to wider reforms that could include operator consolidation, contract-based service delivery and integrated fare systems.
For passengers, the value of the programme will ultimately be seen in everyday public transport: safer driving, better-maintained vehicles, stronger supervision, improved customer service and greater compliance with safety requirements.
The training is free for participating drivers and operators and is being implemented by NTSA in collaboration with the Ministry of Roads and Transport and public transport industry stakeholders.
Drivers and operators seeking further information can contact NTSA through its official communication channels or visit the nearest NTSA office or Huduma Centre.
By Hillary Muhalya
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