Lessons for NTSA and Kenya’s Transport Sector from the Super Metro Saga

Opinion by Risper Akinyi, Journalism and Digital Media student, KCA University.

Photo Credits: The Star Kenya 

The suspension of Super Metro's operator license by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) on March 12, 2025, following the tragic death of Gilbert Thuo Kimani, sparked national debate on public transport safety and regulation. The incident, in which Kimani allegedly fell from a moving bus after a dispute with a conductor, led to NTSA halting Super Metro’s operations, citing the need for compliance with PSV regulations. However, following legal processes, the suspension has since been lifted, allowing the fleet to resume operations.

This event has exposed deeper concerns within Kenya’s transport sector, including selective enforcement of regulations, commuter safety, and the need for long-term structural reforms. While NTSA’s intervention was aimed at ensuring accountability, questions remain about whether enforcement is applied fairly across all PSV operators or just one who unfortunately finds themselves in a mess. Many argue that numerous matatus with blatant safety violations continue operating with little oversight, while Super Metro, known for its relative order and discipline, faced immediate suspension after an incident that led to death. NTSA must ensure impartiality in its enforcement to maintain public trust in transport regulation.

Photo Credits: The Times Kenya

Commuters also have a role to play in ensuring safer public transport. While PSV operators bear responsibility for safety, passengers must also hold them accountable. Many cases of reckless driving, misconduct, drunkardness and bribery go unreported, allowing unsafe practices to persist. Commuters should actively report traffic violations, choose law-abiding vehicles, and demand better services. A culture of accountability from both passengers and operators will push the industry toward better safety standards.

Beyond immediate enforcement actions, this incident highlights the urgent need for long-term transport reforms. Kenya’s public transport sector remains fragmented, with multiple regulatory bodies, unregulated matatus, and poorly trained drivers and conductors. Instead of reactive crackdowns, the government should invest in digital tracking systems for PSV compliance, improve coordination between NTSA, traffic police, and county governments, and accelerate the implementation of modern alternatives such as Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems. Sustainable reforms will create a safer and more efficient transport network.

Additionally, NTSA must strike a balance between safety and business sustainability. Super Metro’s temporary suspension disrupted transport for thousands of commuters and impacted livelihoods. Rather than enforcing blanket shutdowns, NTSA should implement structured penalties, allow partial operations while compliance measures are put in place, and work collaboratively with PSV SACCOs to improve safety. A fair regulatory approach ensures passenger protection without destabilizing the transport system.

PSV SACCOs must also strengthen self-regulation to prevent future incidents. Ensuring drivers adhere to traffic laws, conducting regular vehicle inspections, and providing continuous training can improve safety and reduce the risk of regulatory crackdowns. Conductors too should be trained on handling their clients. The responsibility of maintaining high standards should not rest solely with regulators but also with the SACCOs managing these fleets.

The Super Metro case serves as a critical lesson for Kenya’s transport industry. NTSA must enforce regulations fairly, PSV operators must uphold safety standards, and commuters must demand better services. Meaningful improvements in public transport will only come through collective action from all stakeholders. This incident should drive broader reforms to ensure a safer, more organized, and accountable transport sector.

The writer is a Journalism and Digital Media student at KCA University, Nairobi.

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