New rules to govern garages launched

The Government has launched new rules to govern garages. The Kenya Bureau of standards (Kebs) and the Kenya Motor Repairers Association (Kemra) yesterday launched new motor vehicle repair standards that aim to ensure professionalism in the trade.

 Kebs Managing Director Charles Ongwae said most road accidents are caused by mechanical failures since most garages are not run professionally and offer mediocre services.

“We want to implement standards that will address causes of accidents and promote transparency in our garages. The Kenyan culture over the years has been to accept cheap things, thus compromising quality of service and eventually leading to accidents,” said Mr Ongwae.

Ongwae said Kemra and Kebs will educate the public on the need for top-notch vehicle repair standards for a period of six months after which they will enforce the rules. The code is expected to affect all garages across the country.

“The National Transport and Safety Authority are on board and will be part of enforcing these standards after a period of six months,” explained Ongwae.

Kemra Chairman Bernard Ngore said once the industry adheres to the new standards, it would create more job opportunities.