Matatu Owners Association Backs Crackdown on Fake Insurance Certificates

The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has welcomed the ongoing nationwide crackdown on fake motor insurance certificates, describing it as a necessary step towards protecting passengers, vehicle owners, and all road users from the dangers posed by insurance fraud.

Speaking following the launch of the joint enforcement exercise by the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) and the Insurance Fraud Investigation Unit (IFIU), the President of the Matatu Owners Association, H.E. Albert Karakacha, said the operation will help restore confidence in the public transport sector while promoting compliance with insurance regulations.

"Insurance is not merely a legal requirement; it is a critical safeguard that protects operators, passengers, and third parties when accidents occur. Any motorist operating with fake insurance is exposing innocent lives to unnecessary risk and financial hardship," said Karakacha.

He noted that many PSV operators invest heavily in acquiring legitimate insurance covers and should not be subjected to unfair competition from individuals who seek shortcuts through fraudulent documentation.

According to Karakacha, the prevalence of fake insurance certificates not only undermines the insurance industry but also weakens efforts aimed at improving safety and professionalism within the transport sector.

"The matatu industry has undergone significant reforms over the years, and compliance remains central to our efforts to enhance safety and service delivery. We therefore fully support measures that remove fraudsters from our roads and protect law-abiding operators," he stated.

The MOA President urged matatu owners, SACCOs, fleet managers, and individual motorists to verify their insurance policies through approved channels and to transact only with licensed insurance companies, agents, and brokers.

He further called upon stakeholders in the transport and insurance sectors to strengthen public awareness campaigns, noting that some motorists unknowingly fall victim to fraudsters masquerading as genuine insurance agents.

"We must continue educating motorists on how to verify insurance certificates and identify licensed service providers. Prevention through awareness is just as important as enforcement," Karakacha added.

He also commended the collaboration between IRA, IFIU, traffic police officers, transport SACCOs, and other stakeholders, saying a coordinated approach is essential in eliminating fraudulent practices from the sector.

As the enforcement exercise continues across the country, Karakacha reaffirmed the Matatu Owners Association's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote compliance, passenger safety, consumer protection, and integrity within Kenya's transport industry.

"The message is clear: every vehicle on our roads must have genuine insurance cover. Compliance protects lives, safeguards investments, and strengthens confidence in our transport system. Together, we can build a safer and more accountable road transport sector for all Kenyans," he concluded.