The National, Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued several warnings to drivers ferrying students ahead of school closure next week.
NTSA road safety strategy manager Samwel Musumba said matatus that will be found with cases of indiscipline shall face the law.
"We have seen in the past where you find children or students on board a matatu drinking or smoking on board. That is bad and we are discouraging that," Musumba said.
"Any operator whose vehicles will be found with such kind of incidences as an authority we will definitely take action within the law because that is not right."
He said they should observe traffic rules and ensure students belt up to prevent unnecessary traffic accidents.
"Ensure that they belt up when they are on board because they are just like normal passengers. Don't treat them like they are different people, they are just normal passengers," Musumba said.
He also urged school managers to release students early during the day so as to prevent matatus from operating during the night as it poses greater risks of accidents.
"Ensure that schools close early in the mornings. Get the children to wherever destination they are going to early enough and don't operate into the night," Musumba said.
Musumba further urged the school management to ensure their vehicles are in good condition before ferrying students.
"Remember that school transport is a public service vehicle that carries passengers just like the matatus," he said.
In addition, he asked them to prevent placing drivers who are overworked, under stress or experiencing mental issues.
"As a school management, engage your drivers so that if this driver says he is not feeling well or not fit to drive, please get another driver," Musumba said.
"We have to protect these children and ensure that they are safe. We have to ensure that as they get home, they get home in one piece."
