NTSA Suspends Matatu Driver for 90 Days Over Pedestrian Walkway Incident

The National Transport and Safety Authority acted swiftly on a case that drew widespread attention after a video showed a public service vehicle driver mounting a pedestrian walkway to dodge traffic.

The incident took place at Allsops along Thika Road in Nairobi, where heavy congestion often tempts matatu operators to use non-road surfaces. Footage captured on February 11 showed a matatu from Neema Travellers Agency Ltd (registration KCA 527T) veering onto the walkway. A pedestrian stood firm in its path, refusing to step aside and confronting the driver over the danger posed to people on foot.

The clip spread quickly online, prompting public calls for action against the reckless manoeuvre. NTSA responded by requiring the driver to appear for review. On Thursday February 12, the authority confirmed he presented himself, underwent the mandatory driving assessment, but failed to meet the standards.

As a direct result, his driving licence has been suspended for ninety days. NTSA added that he must complete a medical evaluation before any retest can be considered. The driver was brought forward by his SACCO, Neema Travellers Agency Ltd, which operates commuter services in and around Nairobi.

This enforcement follows NTSA's pattern of responding to viral incidents involving PSVs. The authority has suspended licences and, in some cases, operator permits after similar violations, including reckless overtaking, shoulder driving, and endangering pedestrians. Recent months have seen multiple such actions against saccos following accident reviews or public footage.

The Allsops area, part of the busy Thika Road corridor, sees frequent jams where matatus compete aggressively for space and passengers. Drivers sometimes leave the carriageway entirely, using walkways or verges, which endangers pedestrians and undermines road discipline.

In its update, NTSA reminded all drivers to observe traffic regulations strictly and yield right of way to pedestrians at all times. It highlighted the role of public reporting in identifying and addressing dangerous behaviour, urging road users to stay vigilant.

The suspension prevents the driver from operating any vehicle for the next three months. Reinstatement hinges on passing both the medical check and a fresh driving test. The case underscores ongoing challenges in enforcing safety standards among PSV operators in Nairobi's chaotic traffic environment.

Pedestrian walkways exist to protect foot traffic, particularly in urban junctions like Allsops where people cross or walk alongside roads. Mounting them with a vehicle creates immediate hazards, especially during peak hours when walkways carry commuters.

NTSA's decision reflects its broader push to curb human-error accidents in public transport through assessments, penalties, and reminders. The authority continues to monitor reported cases closely, with viral videos often accelerating response times.