The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has granted conditional approval for the importation of special-purpose motor vehicles that exceed the eight-year age limit or feature left-hand drive (LHD) configurations.
In a notice to importers, KEBS stated that these vehicles will be considered for entry into the country if they meet strict requirements, including documented customization, proof of serviceability, and confirmation that the vehicle is not more than 20 years old from its year of manufacture.
“Special-purpose vehicles that are over eight years old and/or Left-Hand Drive (LHD) may be allowed entry into the country, subject to the fulfillment of the following conditions: proof of a record of serviceability and evidence that the vehicle is no more than 20 years old from the year of manufacture,” the bureau announced.
This marks a limited exemption from the existing KS 1515:2000 standard, which restricts the importation and registration of vehicles older than eight years and bans all LHD units.
KEBS has urged importers to review the full list of waiver conditions available on its website and to obtain the necessary approvals before initiating shipments. The agency warned that non-compliance may result in delays or denial of clearance at Kenyan ports.
KEBS stressed approvals will only be granted after full verification that all specified conditions are met, noting that importation is not automatically guaranteed.
Special-purpose vehicles, which are often acquired from overseas markets for niche functions, may fall outside regular import regulations despite being fully operational and fit for service.
