Roads and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has explained why vehicles with private number plates are being used for highway patrols by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA). According to Chirchir, the vehicles do not belong to the government but are owned by contractors hired under performance-based maintenance agreements.
Chirchir made the clarification in response to questions from Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, who had sought an explanation on the ownership and procurement of the patrol vehicles operating under KeNHA’s name.
“CS Chirchir, why is KeNHA using privately owned vehicles for highway patrols? Who owns them, and how are they procured?” Nyutu asked during a Senate session.
In reply, Chirchir said KeNHA outsources maintenance and patrol services on major roads—such as Thika Road and the Nairobi Southern Bypass—through structured contracts awarded to private contractors. These contractors are responsible for providing and operating the patrol vehicles, which remain privately registered throughout the contract period.
“The patrol vehicles are owned by performance-based contractors, who are selected through a competitive bidding process in line with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015,” Chirchir explained.
He added that the contracts cover a wide range of responsibilities, including routine road patrols to ensure traffic compliance, quick response to breakdowns and accidents, protection of road infrastructure such as guardrails and lighting, and assistance to motorists in need.
Chirchir emphasized that this arrangement improves efficiency and enhances safety on key highways with high traffic volumes.
“KeNHA relies on privately owned vehicles as part of its outsourced maintenance strategy,” he said. “This ensures timely and effective road maintenance while improving overall safety.”
Regarding whether KeNHA plans to acquire its own patrol fleet, Chirchir clarified that the agency has no such intentions. He stated that contractors are expected to use their own vehicles as part of their service delivery commitments.
“The authority does not plan to purchase patrol vehicles. Contractors are required to deploy their own equipment in fulfilling contract obligations,” he said.
Chirchir concluded by noting that while contractors manage daily patrol operations, KeNHA staff continue to use official government vehicles for inspections and supervisory roles.
