Kenya Tightens Petroleum Transport Rules After Sh197M in Losses

Kenya's petroleum transport sector faced significant challenges in the second half of 2025. Accidents and incidents during this period caused direct financial losses exceeding Sh197 million. A new set of regulations now aims to improve safety across the industry.

Between July and December 2025, most accidents in the sector—83%—happened while transporting petroleum products. Investigations highlighted human error as a major cause of these incidents. In response, the government introduced the Petroleum (Licensing of Petroleum Road Transportation Business) Regulations, 2025, to strengthen safety measures.

The new rules require companies to adopt Transport Safety Management Systems (TSMS). These systems cover risk assessment, incident reporting, and driver training. They also include policies on fatigue management, emergency preparedness, and continuous improvement. Additionally, firms must create detailed journey management plans, outlining safe routes, rest stops, and communication protocols for every delivery.

Regulators have stressed that safety is a shared duty. Policymakers, oil marketing firms, transport companies, and even the public must work together. The goal is to enforce these measures effectively across the entire supply chain.

The 2025 regulations set clear standards for licensing, vehicle conditions, and driver competence. Companies must now monitor driver behaviour and follow strict operational procedures. While the impact on near-miss incidents remains unmeasured, collaboration between all stakeholders will be key to reducing risks in the sector.