Nyoro Questions NTSA Sh42 Billion Automated Traffic Camera System, Raises Concerns on Motives

Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has raised serious concerns about the newly launched NTSA automated traffic enforcement system, a project worth Sh42 billion. According to Nyoro, the system, which uses about 1,000 smart cameras to detect traffic offences and send instant fines via SMS, might be more about making money than improving road safety. He argued that the urgent rollout, following a directive to install cameras within a month, hinted at commercial motives rather than genuine concern for reducing accidents. The project is a public-private partnership involving NTSA, KCB Bank Kenya, and Pesa Print, and it covers major roads like Thika Superhighway, Mombasa Road, and the Southern Bypass. NTSA says the system aims to curb road accidents, which claimed over 5,100 lives in 2025. Nyoro expressed worries that instant fines could disproportionately affect ordinary Kenyans, especially boda boda operators, and criticised the 20-year duration of the contract. He also warned that the initiative could turn into another tool for patronage, taking money directly from citizens’ mobile accounts. Meanwhile, a legal challenge has been filed against the system, but the High Court allowed the programme to continue while setting a mention date of April 9. The controversy highlights tension between road safety objectives and concerns over financial motives.