Alcoblows Return Nationwide as NTSA Cracks Down on Drunk Driving

The government is bringing back NTSA Alcoblows on major roads across Kenya in a renewed effort to stop drunk driving. Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir confirmed the move, saying the breathalyzers will help reduce rising road accidents. Drivers caught over the alcohol limit will face hefty fines of up to Ksh 100,000, jail terms of up to two years, or both. The reinstated laws, previously nullified by courts, have now been approved by Parliament and signed into law. The new Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules, 2025, will be implemented immediately. This crackdown signals a firm stance on road safety. CS Chirchir has already signed off on the updated rules. Once they are gazetted this week, NTSA Alcoblows and road checkpoints will begin operating immediately. [Photo/Courtesy] NTSA Alcoblows Return Under New Drink-Driving Laws Starting this week, NTSA Alcoblows will be placed on major highways across Kenya. The Transport Cabinet Secretary, Davis Chirchir , announced the immediate return of roadside breathalyzer tests to curb the country’s escalating road carnage. Under the new Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules, 2025 , any motorist caught driving under the influence will be fined up to Ksh100,000 , jailed for up to two years , or both. Convicted drivers will also lose their licenses for at least one year . Chirchir stated that the National Assembly had amended previous court-blocked laws, giving NTSA full authority to enforce drink-driving rules. These regulations are now fully backed by the Traffic Act, CAP 403. The CS has already signed off on the updated rules. Once they are gazetted this week, NTSA Alcoblows and road checkpoints will begin operating immediately. “We did not have to get here,” said Chirchir, expressing his frustration after visiting the scene of a deadly road crash that killed 15 people along the Kaplong-Kapkatet road. “We will implement these regulations and take stern action to safeguard lives.” Drunk Driving Offenders Face Harsh Penalties The government has introduced stricter penalties for those caught behind the wheel while drunk. Any driver exceeding the legal alcohol limit will be charged, fined, or jailed. This move targets drivers of both private and commercial vehicles. According to the new rules: Offenders face fines up to Ksh100,000 Jail terms can reach two years Convicted drivers lose their licenses for 12 months NTSA will lead enforcement, supported by the police. Officers will conduct checks on highways, especially during weekends and holidays when drunk driving cases spike. Transport CS Davis Chirchir emphasized that drunk drivers pose a serious threat to public safety, and the law will treat them as criminals. [Photo: Screenshot] Broader Transport Reforms Accompany Alcoblow Crackdown The NTSA Alcoblows are only one part of a wider push to tighten traffic laws and improve road safety. CS Chirchir announced several upcoming reforms: Heavy commercial vehicles over 3,480 kg will now be strictly regulated. School transport will get new operational guidelines. Vehicle inspections will be enhanced through both private and public centers. Driving school vehicles will also undergo regular inspections. The government has rolled out four new legal frameworks: Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules, 2025 Traffic (Motor Vehicle Inspection) Rules, 2025 Operation of Commercial Service Vehicles Rules, 2025 Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2025 Each set of rules is aimed at making Kenya’s roads safer for every user—drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Police Launch Crash Investigations Amid Warning to Drivers Following the tragic Kaplong-Kapkatet road crash on April 5, where a lorry collided head-on with a public service vehicle killing 15, police have begun investigations. The National Police Service (NPS) reported that early findings suggest the collision was due to reckless driving. They urged all road users to exercise extreme caution to prevent more tragedies. “We must all be accountable. These accidents are avoidable,” said Chirchir, reinforcing the importance of personal responsibility. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYk4X-OJajI