The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has launched a nationwide capacity-building programme targeting public service vehicle (PSV) drivers, operators, managers and supervisors.
The programme, launched on Monday, September 21, seeks to promote professionalism in the public transport sector, improve road safety, strengthen compliance and support sustainable PSV businesses.
NTSA noted that the initiative is part of ongoing reforms aimed at moving the sector away from informal and passenger-driven operations towards professionally managed, safety-focused and financially sustainable transport businesses.
NTSA officer addressing PSV drivers. Photo: Courtesy.
The training will target both drivers and the organisations that operate and manage PSV businesses, with a focus on improving safety standards and addressing behavioural, vehicular and operational factors linked to road crashes.
Drivers will receive training in defensive driving, passenger care, professional conduct, communication, wellness and regulatory compliance. The programme will also cover vehicle safety, hazard perception, inspections, fuel efficiency and smooth driving techniques.
Participants will further be trained on traffic laws, licensing requirements, roadworthiness, insurance obligations, passenger safety, digital systems and emergency response procedures.
NTSA also plans to equip PSV operators and managers with skills in strategic leadership, governance, financial management, fleet operations, customer experience, technology and sustainable business growth.
An integrated competency assessment will be used to identify safety gaps and determine corrective measures.
Participants will also complete a 90-day operator improvement plan as part of the training.
The programme will be implemented in four phases, beginning with design and baseline assessment, followed by a pilot, national scale-up and eventual institutionalisation and sustainability.
A Training of Trainers (ToT) cohort has already completed preparations to support the rollout across the country.
The first cohorts began a free four-day training programme on September 21 in Voi, Taita Taveta County, as well as in Mombasa and Garissa counties.
NTSA scheduled the pilot ahead of the festive season, when passenger numbers and commercial pressure on PSV operators typically increase.
Drivers and operators selected for the programme will later serve as road safety champions within their respective SACCOs and transport companies.
The Authority plans to expand the training to additional counties, with priority given to high-risk corridors and high-volume routes.
Data collected during the pilot will be used to refine the curriculum and improve trainer deployment before the national rollout.
NTSA also plans to develop a professional course in Public Transport Management and Professional Drivers Certification in partnership with training institutions.
More than 4,000 PSV drivers, SACCO managers, operators and supervisors are expected to benefit from the training and certification programme, which will be offered free of charge to participating drivers and operators.
