A licensing change affecting heavy truck drivers has sparked concern among those transporting fuel, chemicals and other dangerous goods, with the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) warning that some professionals are being subjected to arrests and detention after their renewed licences came without the Class “CD” endorsement.
The association says the problem has affected drivers who previously held the endorsement and have continued carrying hazardous cargo both in Kenya and on regional routes.
Class “CD” is a specialised professional category issued by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). It allows qualified drivers to operate heavy goods vehicles involved in the movement of hazardous materials and is regarded as the highest driving licence class.
The category covers drivers handling dangerous or flammable substances, including petroleum products, chemicals and industrial waste.
LoDDCA said it has received complaints from drivers who noticed that the Class “CD” endorsement was missing from their renewed documents.
According to the association, the situation has created difficulties for drivers who had already met the requirements for the endorsement and remain actively engaged in hazardous cargo transportation.
The concern also extends to petroleum tanker drivers who have valid certification from the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), but now face questions over their driving licences following the removal of the endorsement.
"It is now evident that NTSA is removing the Class "CD" endorsement from renewed Driving Licences. LoDDCA strongly protests the removal of the Class "CD" endorsement and is seeking urgent engagement with NTSA, EPRA and other relevant authorities to establish the legal and operational implications of the decision and secure a lasting solution for affected drivers," the Association said in a statement on Friday.
LoDDCA wants NTSA, EPRA and other concerned agencies to explain the effect of the change and agree on a solution that will prevent qualified drivers from being penalised while carrying out their duties.
The association said drivers should not be arrested, held in custody, lose income or have their livelihoods affected because of unresolved differences in the regulatory system.
"We are calling for clarity, consultation and protection of drivers who have been operating under the existing licensing framework," it said.
The association said it would continue seeking discussions with the authorities and pursue lawful avenues to have the matter resolved.
It has, however, warned that continued uncertainty could push affected hazardous cargo drivers to take lawful collective action, including stopping work until the issue is settled.
“This is not a call for unnecessary disruption. It is a call to protect the rights, livelihoods and professional standing of drivers who are essential to Kenya's energy supply chains and regional trade," LoDDCA said.
Drivers renewing their licences have been advised to check the new documents before leaving the licensing centre and confirm that the Class “CD” endorsement is included.
LoDDCA also urged drivers to keep copies or photographs of earlier licences that clearly show the endorsement. The documents could help demonstrate that the driver previously held the professional classification.
Drivers involved in the transportation of petroleum products have also been advised to keep their EPRA Petroleum Road Tanker Driver Certificate or Card valid and updated.
They have been asked to carry the EPRA certification whenever they are transporting petroleum products and to ensure that other required documents are also in order.
These include professional driving documents, vehicle records and paperwork required for the transportation of hazardous cargo.
The association said drivers seeking the Class “CD” endorsement must meet the required qualifications before being granted the licence.
An applicant must be at least 30 years old and have accumulated at least two years of driving experience under the CE category.
The driver must also complete specialised training on the handling of hazardous materials before undertaking a retest. Only after meeting these requirements can the Class “CD” endorsement be granted.