The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has suspended the operating license of Super Metro Limited, one of Nairobi’s largest public transport companies, citing multiple regulatory and safety violations.
The decision, announced on March 20, 2025, follows extensive inspections revealing non-compliance with key traffic laws, including expired licenses, defective speed limiters, and unqualified drivers. NTSA stated that the move was “necessitated by the need to ensure the company is not only compliant but that it has put in place safety measures to protect the lives of its passengers and other road users.”
A comprehensive analysis by NTSA found that out of Super Metro’s 523 vehicles, 15 had expired inspection certificates and eight lacked valid Road Service Licenses. Furthermore, 109 vehicles were found operating beyond the 80km/h speed limit, while 171 lacked speed limiter records.
“The driving credentials of some drivers assigned to the company’s portal do not meet the required qualifications, presenting a major road safety risk,” the agency noted. Additionally, 64 drivers failed a retest at Likoni Driver Test Centre, leading to the suspension of their licenses.
Super Metro is now required to present 294 vehicles for compliance inspection and ensure that 42 drivers with recorded violations undergo a retest. The company must also disengage unqualified drivers and submit proof of compliance with employment and statutory regulations, including payroll and remittances.
The suspension has sparked concerns among commuters who rely on Super Metro for daily transport. However, NTSA has cautioned passengers against boarding its vehicles and instructed the Traffic Department to impound any found operating contrary to the suspension.
The regulator reaffirmed its commitment to road safety, stating, “The Authority shall conduct a compliance audit on the company to ensure adherence to safety and operational standards.”
