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The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has warned parents against allowing children below 18 years to drive their vehicles.
In a statement on Monday, November 2, the authority reminded parents that underage driving is against Kenyan law. It also urged them to keep vehicle keys away from children, even when they can operate a car.
NTSA said the minimum age for driving a motor vehicle in Kenya is 18 years. It added that drivers must also have valid driving licences.
“Don’t let your child become the next statistic. The minimum driving age in Kenya is 18 years,” the authority stated.
The agency warned that parents who allow or fail to stop unlicensed people from driving could face legal consequences. It urged families to discuss road safety with their children.
NTSA also asked parents to explain the dangers of reckless driving and road accidents. The authority further advised vehicle owners to monitor their cars and always know who is using them.
The warning comes as children return home for the holidays. Some may be tempted to drive family vehicles without proper training or understanding of traffic rules.
NTSA’s advisory also comes ahead of the festive season, when road traffic usually increases. The authority has been urging motorists to take precautions to reduce accidents.
Under the Traffic Act, a driving licence or provisional licence cannot be issued to anyone below 16 years. However, reaching 18 years is required to drive a motor vehicle.
A 16-year-old may ride a motorcycle, subject to the applicable licensing requirements. This does not give them permission to drive a car.
In a previous case, a parent was arrested after his seven-year-old son was found driving. The parent was reportedly fined KSh20,000 or faced a three-month jail term for allowing the child to drive.
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