Government orders all public vehicles to switch to new number plates by August

New generation license plates were unveiled in 2022. [File, Standard]

The government has directed all public offices to ensure their vehicles are fitted with new generation number plates by August 29.

In a directive dated Wednesday, May 21, Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service Felix Koskei said the order applies to all ministries, departments, agencies, state corporations, public universities, public schools and county governments.

"Most public institutions have not complied with the rollout of the new number plates despite the security and identification improvements they offer," said Koskei.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) introduced the plates in October 2022 to help curb vehicle theft, boost road safety and align with international standards.

The plates include an electronic chip that stores vehicle details.

This comes barely a month after motorists across the country were handed relief following confirmation by NTSA that a fresh batch of number plates had been delivered, easing a backlog that had caused delays in recent months.

NTSA Board Chair Khatib Mwashetani confirmed the arrival of the new plates during a visit to the Authority's premises, reiterating the government's commitment to streamlining service delivery and resolving supply chain challenges.

Clients who had applied and received SMS notifications have been advised to collect their plates from the offices where they submitted their applications.

NTSA Director General George Njao assured the public and motor vehicle dealers that the shortage experienced in recent months has now been fully addressed.

He noted that production has stabilised and the Authority is working to ensure consistent availability going forward.

"The concerns from the public and stakeholders were valid, and we appreciate their patience. We are now back on track and clients can expect timely service," said Njao.

Koskei said the Government Vehicle Check Unit will enforce compliance with the August deadline, and no extensions will be granted.