Gridlock, potholes, and policy gaps: Experts call for transport sector overhaul

The stakeholders raised urban mobility concerns that Kenya and the developing world continue to grapple with stemming from a fragmented governance framework that underutilizes research, skilled professionals, and emerging technologies.
“We are looking at institutional and policy aspects responsible for managing transport and the role stakeholders play. On this regard, we need to provide a framework responsive to the needs of the players,” KNAS Editor in Chief Mwaja says.

Kenya’s transport system is choking under the weight of poor planning, weak policies, and neglect of everyday road users, experts have said.

In a bold push for change, top experts, academics, and industry players gathered in Nairobi to chart a new course for the country’s troubled transport sector.

The Kenya National Academy of Sciences, in collaboration with Multimedia University and the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (NAMATA), held a one-day symposium in Nairobi to address persistent transport sector challenges and explore policy-driven solutions.

Experts cited a fragmented governance structure that overlooks research, skilled professionals, and new technologies. This has led to unsafe infrastructure, poor access, and environmental damage.

Speaking to The Star, Kenya National Academy of Sciences President Ratemo Michieka, in his keynote speech, emphasised the need for collaboration between different transport agencies.

He said collaboration will help address critical challenges facing the transport sector, which include poor infrastructure maintenance, limited access to affordable transport, traffic congestion, inadequate transport integration, and corruption in traffic law enforcement.

"There is an urgent need to transform Kenya’s transport sector for sustainable development. It is time for innovative solutions like electric buses, smart traffic systems, and bicycle-sharing programs. There is a need for investment in sustainable infrastructure, stricter policies, and collaborative innovation," Ratemo said.

Dr Gladys Nyachieo, a senior lecturer from Multimedia University, emphasised the importance of research in policy formulation and the importance of effective transport governance in Kenya.

She noted that while urban transport governance in African cities is critical for sustainable mobility, it faces challenges like institutional fragmentation, limited citizen participation, funding gaps, and political interference.

"Studies from Nakuru, Jinja, Kisii, and Mzuzu reveal that poor governance, not just infrastructure deficits, hampers progress. Strengthening governance through integrated institutions, transparent planning, sustainable financing, and data-driven decision-making is vital. Research and civil society must actively support evidence-based policymaking," she said.

"Transforming transport systems requires inclusive, accountable, and coordinated approaches to meet SDG targets and build equitable cities. Quote: Sustainable transport is not just a question of infrastructure; it is a matter of governance."

NaMATA Deputy Director for Policy and Research Dominic Omboto emphasised the role of planning in transport governance, saying effective transport governance is impossible without proper planning..

He said planning provides the foundation for coordination, decision-making, accountability, and sustainability in transport systems.

"In Kenya, the lack of integrated, data-driven, and participatory planning has often led to fragmented institutions, inefficiencies, and inequitable outcomes," he said.

"Sustainable transport governance must begin with robust, inclusive, and forward-looking planning processes. Institutions like NaMATA demonstrate how strategic planning enables cities to deliver accessible, efficient, and environmentally responsible transport systems that support long-term urban development goals."

KNAS Editor-in-Chief, Professor Vasey Mwaja, stressed the need to involve all players in the transport sector.

“We must bring in transport experts, PSV operators, and motorists. They understand the network and can offer practical insights,” Mwaja said.

He emphasized the need for policy and institutional reforms to reflect the realities on the ground.

“Motorbikes operate in the same space as vehicles. That’s a problem. There is little effort to address real public needs,” he noted.

He said most Kenyans walk as their main mode of transport, yet infrastructure often ignores pedestrians.

“Projects should consider all road users. Walkways must be part of road construction. People should walk without fear of being harassed by a motorbike,” he said.

Mwaja called for the creation of policies that are people-focused. He also urged stronger coordination between national and county governments.

“Sometimes there's a huge pothole in a no-man’s land. No one knows whether the county or national government is responsible. We need clear accountability,” he said.

The professor also called for the use of digital tools and AI to enhance safety and efficiency.

“We need community forums. Go to Dandora, Kayole—talk to the people. Let them share their concerns about transport policies and regulations,” he said.

Mwaja concluded that inclusive dialogue and responsive policy are key to solving Kenya’s transport challenges.