NTSA faces criticism over delays in reflective number plates

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is under fire from Kenyan motorists frustrated by prolonged delays in receiving reflective number plates. Activist Morara Kebaso highlighted his two-month wait despite approval. Public calls for NTSA to address the issue grow louder.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has come under renewed scrutiny amid complaints from applicants experiencing significant delays in the issuance of reflective number plates. On January 7, 2026, lawyer and activist Morara Kebaso voiced his frustration on X, revealing that he has waited over two months for his plate despite receiving a confirmation of approval.

Kebaso accused NTSA of inefficiency and lack of accountability, stating that the agency has the capacity to expedite the process but is subjecting Kenyans to unnecessary delays. He noted that NTSA promised to notify him when the plate was ready for collection, yet no such communication has followed.

Other applicants echoed similar sentiments. One user commented, "Not you alone, boss. Even I am still waiting for it." Another shared, "There are so many of us still waiting. Mine has been pending since November."

Efforts by Kenyans.co.ke to obtain clarification from NTSA were unsuccessful, as the authority provided no response. This incident adds to mounting pressure on NTSA, with some motorists calling for a complete overhaul of the agency due to ongoing challenges in services for drivers, including delays in driving licenses.

The reflective number plates, intended to enhance road safety through better visibility, were introduced to replace traditional plates, but implementation hiccups have led to widespread dissatisfaction.

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