Alai seeks to enhance safety and order with regularisation of non-motorised transport in Nairobi

Nairobi City County will soon be in order as it plans to regularize and set comprehensive guidelines for registering and regulating non-motorized means of transport, including wheelbarrows, rickshaws, handcarts, animal-drawn carts, luggage trolleys, and tricycles.

A motion by Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly Robert Alai seeks to address the growing congestion in the Central Business District by introducing the regularization

“The initiative aims to address the growing congestion and safety concerns caused by the widespread use of these transport modes, which account for 45 per cent of mobility in the county, according to the UN Environmental Program,” Alai explained to The Informer Media Group.

The motion calls for the issuance of reflective number plates for all non-motorized transport, the mandatory use of reflective jackets by operators, and the requirement for operators to obtain insurance coverage to protect against accidents and third-party damages.

“These measures will ensure lane discipline, enhance road safety, and provide a framework for operators to acquire necessary road safety knowledge. A six-month grace period will be provided for compliance once the guidelines are operationalised in collaboration with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA),” Alai stated.

He emphasized that this motion aligns with the vision of the Nairobi City County Governor to create a city of dignity and hope, fostering a safer, more organized, and inclusive urban environment for all residents and road users.

According to chairman of the Mkokoteni and Trolley Association Peter Njoroge, Nairobi currently has approximately 2,608 trolleys and 371 carts.

The Nairobi City County Transport Act, 2020, mandates the County Executive Committee Member for Transport to establish guidelines ensuring the safe movement of non-motorized transport users, including rickshaws and handcarts.