Digital Policing: DP Kindiki Pushes Instant Traffic Fines to Modernize Road Safety in Kenya

Kenya could soon see a major shift in traffic enforcement as Deputy President Kithure Kindiki pushes for the return of the instant traffic fines system. The program, temporarily halted by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), relies on digital technology to automatically issue fines, detain vehicles and penalize drivers who violate traffic rules.

Speaking on Tuesday, April 7, during a memorial service in Nyeri for victims of a recent deadly crash, Kindiki highlighted the system’s potential to save lives. “The instant fine system sends notifications directly to the driver’s phone. Vehicles can be immobilized if fines are ignored. Repeat offenders risk losing their licences, and everything is handled electronically,” he said. He appealed to the judiciary to lift the injunction, saying, “We are asking the courts to support measures that protect Kenyans on our roads.”

The suspension, NTSA argues, was a necessary pause to educate the public on how digital enforcement works. Director General Odhiambo Kondiwa told the High Court that the authority formally withdrew the system on March 27 to allow more public awareness campaigns. He stressed that continuing the legal process would be an academic exercise, since the system is not active.

The digital fines system represents a broader push toward technology-driven governance. By reducing the need for physical traffic police and automating enforcement, authorities hope to cut human error, improve compliance, and enhance transparency. Cameras installed along major highways track violations in real time, sending instant alerts and reducing delays in penalty issuance.

While the system faced legal challenges and public skepticism during its initial rollout, officials argue it is essential for modern road safety. With traffic accidents still claiming lives across Kenya, the government sees technology as a key tool to manage risk. Motorists and industry observers are now watching closely to see when the instant fine program will resume, and whether it can balance efficiency with fairness in enforcing traffic laws.