Speed governors in Kenya: who needs one and how to stay compliant

Who must have a speed governor

Under Kenya's traffic rules, public service vehicles and commercial vehicles must be fitted with a working speed limiter. That includes matatus, buses, school vehicles, trucks and other commercial vehicles. The rules were tightened in 2013, when the Transport Cabinet Secretary required digital speed governors with speed recorders that inspectors can read.

What the KS 2295 standard means

Speed governors must meet the Kenya Standard KS 2295 and come from a supplier approved by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). A compliant unit limits the vehicle to the speed set for its class and records speed data that a motor vehicle inspector can retrieve.

The calibration certificate

After fitting, the governor is calibrated to the required limit and road tested. You then receive a calibration certificate for the vehicle. Keep it in the vehicle: NTSA and police officers ask for it at inspection and on the road.

Renewals and servicing

• Certificates are renewed yearly, so note the date and book before it lapses.
• Have broken seals, faults or warning lights checked straight away by trained technicians.
• Never disconnect or tamper with a governor. It puts lives at risk and can cost an operator their licence.

Where TMC fits in

Speed governors are TMC's second largest service after vehicle tracking. We supply, fit and calibrate governors at our branches or at your yard, issue the calibration certificate, keep a record of every unit we fit and remind you before renewal is due.

Common questions