School transport providers in Kisii undergo inspection

School transport providers in Kisii County have subjected their vehicles to a free inspection exercise aimed at enhancing the safety of learners on the road.

The initiative, which took place at Cardinal Otunga High School in Mosocho, is part of the ongoing “Operation Watoto Wafike Salama” campaign spearheaded by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

The campaign seeks to ensure that school buses and vans ferrying children are roadworthy and compliant with safety regulations.

The transport agency confirmed the exercise via their official X handle, noting that several school vehicles were successfully inspected as part of the ongoing safety initiative.

According to NTSA, the inspection targets key components that directly impact safety, including brakes, tires, among others.

“The campaign promotes safe transportation for students by verifying the condition of critical vehicle components like brakes, tires, lights, and seat belts, among others,” the agency said.

Vehicles that meet the required standards are cleared to continue operating, while those found with defects are advised on necessary repairs before being allowed back on the road.

The move comes days after NTSA announced the free motor vehicle inspection clinics for school transport vehicles.

The clinic is further expected to take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9 am to 3 pm, across all designated NTSA inspection centres.

According to the Authority, the initiative is aimed at ensuring the safety of learners by assessing the roadworthiness of school buses and vans before schools reopen for the new term.

These clinics will help identify potential risks and guide schools and vehicle owners on corrective measures.

Inspection centres participating in the exercise include Mombasa, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Nyahururu, Machakos, Voi, Kitale, Kakamega, Nyeri, Thika, Kisumu, Embu, Meru, Kericho, Garissa, and the Likoni Road centre in Nairobi.

Owners and institutions will receive guidance on repairs or adjustments necessary to ensure compliance with safety standards.

NTSA has appealed to schools and transport service providers to take advantage of the free inspection, stressing that compliance will not only enhance road safety but also build parental confidence in school transport systems.