Concerns Behind the Matatu Strike Paralysing Nairobi’s Transport Sector

Remigius Maloba

Operators cite escalating road violence, including vehicle torching and attacks by some boda boda riders for the ongoing matatu strike.

Despite official announcements that the nationwide strike had been suspended, factions of the industry, including drivers and vehicle owners, continued to withhold services, citing increased violence.

Police deployed tear gas in parts of Westlands and Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) to disperse protestors, while major arteries such as Thika Superhighway, Outering Road, and Waiyaki Way were blocked by stationary matatus.

Commuters reported long queues at bus stops, with many paying higher fares to alternative transport or walking several kilometres to reach their destinations.

Operators Cite Violence as Major Driver

The matatu strike stems from repeated incidents where vehicles have been torched following minor traffic disputes. Operators claim these attacks, often involving mobs and some boda boda riders, inflict millions of shillings in losses and create unsafe working conditions.

In January alone, at least nine vehicles, including matatus, buses, and trucks, were destroyed in hotspots along routes like Thika Road and Juja Road. Matatu associations say authorities have failed to investigate or prosecute perpetrators, creating a climate of impunity.

“We have repeatedly sought government intervention, but attacks continue. The matatu strike is necessary to compel authorities to protect our sector and livelihoods” said Matatu Owners Association (MOA) president Albert Karakacha.

While the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) suspended the strike to allow dialogue, some operators ignored the call, citing insufficient government action. The disagreement highlights fractures within the public transport industry, with some factions insisting their demands for protection and compensation remain unaddressed.

Boda boda leaders, meanwhile, urged both sides to resolve tensions through talks. Kevin Mubadi, chairman of the Boda Boda Safety Association, warned that prolonged disruptions could worsen relations between transport sectors and further inconvenience commuters.

Economic and Commuter Impact

The ongoing matatu strike has paralysed Nairobi’s transport network, delaying workers, students, and businesses. Traders report reduced sales, and residents express frustration at rising costs and longer commutes.

Urban planners and transport experts say repeated strikes threaten Nairobi’s economic productivity and highlight the urgent need for structured dialogue and enforcement of traffic laws.