Moja Expressway, the company tasked with running the Nairobi Expressway, explained why some matatus continued using the elevated highway despite a temporary ban issued by the Ministry of Transport.
In an exclusive interview with Kenyans.co.ke on Monday, July 18, Moja Expressway Head of Public Relations noted that the ban was indefinite and depended on how quickly the matatu saccos would comply with the directive.
Following the announcement, all saccos were to seek clearance certificates from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) proving that all their vehicles are roadworthy.
According to the official, those matatu operators spotted on the highway had already received green light to resume operations on the elevated highway.
"There was a temporary ban for matatus where the Saccos needed to ensure that their vehicles pass the inspection then they can continue using the Expressway.
"They have to pass the inspection because if there is damage along the Expressway, it is the sacco that is going to pay for it. Every sacco was tasked with the duty to ensure that all the vehicles are roadworthy and they pass the inspection by NTSA and once they have the certificate, they are free to use the expressway," the representative noted.
She further explained that those cleared to operate must be branded with their saccos names and issued a certificate. The Ministry of Transport then communicates with the Expressway management over which ones have been cleared.
In case a matatu parts ways with its sacco, it is also expected to pull down all its branding and replace it with the new alliance.
In a new set of traffic rules, NTSA announced that all motorists were expected to hold an inspection certificate renewable every two years for cars older than four years from the date of manufacture.
In the heavy duty vehicles category, the owners will foot Ksh 2,500, trailers under 5 tonnes (Ksh 2,000), and trailers above 5 tonnes (Ksh2,500) while inspection of heavy commercial vehicles less than 5 tons will cost Ksh 3,000 during every inspection round.
All vehicles which undergo any changes in the length, height, width, maximum payload, vehicle color, engine swap, and other major structural or mechanical changes shall also be subject to a modification inspection.
On July 7, the Ministry of transport announced a temporary ban of all matatus on the expressway following an accident at the Mlolongo exit.
The minibus belonging to Embassava Sacco approached the toll station at high speed and crashed before overturning. A toll attendant was among the individuals who sustained injuries.
