Gov't orders full rollout of secure number plates on all state vehicles by August 29

In a circular dated May 21, 2025, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei ordered the immediate rollout of the new high-security plates across all government fleets. 

He warned that any government vehicle not in compliance by the deadline will be impounded during a nationwide enforcement operation led jointly by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Government Vehicle Check Unit (GVCU).

A senior NTSA official confirmed a surge in applications since the directive was issued, adding that the agency has scaled up capacity to handle the influx.

“We’ve put in place adequate measures to manage the increased demand and ensure timely processing,” said the official.

The second-generation plates, rolled out in 2023, feature advanced security enhancements, including digital tracking elements, and are designed to meet international vehicle identification standards.

According to Koskei, the upgraded design is part of a broader government strategy to combat vehicle-related crime, improve road safety, and ensure greater transparency in the use of public assets.

The directive follows an increase in cases abductions in the country, with investigators sometimes pointing fingers at vehicles with altered or dubious plates.