Rush intensifies ahead of new number plate deadline

Government agencies are scrambling to meet the newly announced deadline for installing second-generation number plates on the official vehicles.

In a circular dated May 21, 2025, Head of Public Service Felix Koskei directed that all government vehicles must be fitted with the new generation plates by August 29, 2025.

Failure to comply will result in impoundment during a nationwide enforcement operation led by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Government Vehicle Check Unit (GVCU).

A senior NTSA official confirmed a sharp spike in applications since the directive was issued.

“Measures have been put in place to ensure there is capacity to meet the increased demand,” the official said.

The new plates, introduced two years ago, meet international standards and incorporate enhanced security features.

According to Koskei, the upgraded new look design aims to curb rising cases of vehicle-related criminal activities beside meeting the international standards.