The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is set to introduce five new regulations to monitor the motorcycle subsector.
In the National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2028, the authority shall establish a graduated licensing system for motorcycles.
This is expected to reduce exposure to risk and set a higher safety standard for gaining a license. Recently, the number of boda riders has increased and the venture has lured high school dropouts who may lack the proper training.
"A comprehensive motorcycle safety plan will be prepared collaboratively to address the core safety issues. A greater understanding of the sector and the necessary safety changes is needed," read part of the statement.
Another measure the authority shall implement is improving road infrastructure to ensure motorcycle safety.
NTSA will also introduce anti-lock braking systems and set acceptable safety standards for helmets and hazard warning signs.
Still on helmets, NTSA will establish and operationalise motorcycle helmet laboratory testing to ensure quality safe standards as per the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) standards.
The last measure NTSA will take is the introduction of tougher enforcement of consequences for any motorcycle offence.
Per the plan, implementing these regulations will reduce the increasing non-compliance on the road which has resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property.
According to the authority's data, boda riders (passengers) and pedestrians contribute to over 65 per cent of the fatalities and efforts were in place to lower the number.
Additionally, in the action plan, all boda boda riders will be required to join a Sacco comprising a minimum of 100 members. All the registered Saccos will be required to provide their registration details to the NTSA and the county government.
"'NTSA will work with police and county governments to effectively operationalise 2015 regulations on motorcycle transport. Existing
rules will be strictly overseen by NTSA," reads part of the plan.
All Saccos who fail to comply with the guidelines will be identified and targeted, and NTSA will ensure they are deregistered.
