A major traffic snarl-up has hit Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) as matatu operators stage protests over a bus park dispute.
The chaos erupted on Monday, February 10, morning after Super Metro bus operators attempted to force their way into the highly contested stage at Kencom, triggering resistance from established operators.
Metro Trans, Citi Hopa, Double M and other existing vehicles at the stage then blocked all roads leading to Kencom in protest, bringing traffic to a standstill in Nairobi CBD.
The veteran stage owner Double M connection, blocked City Hall Way, further worsening the snarl-up. Hundreds of commuters are stranded as traffic police attempt to restore order amid rising tensions.
in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) over Kencom stage fight. PHOTO/BoucherDecors
As a result, the transport system in town was paralyzed, with frustrated passengers forced to walk long distances or scramble for the few available alternative means.
Further, long queues formed at alternative pick-up points, with boda bodas cashing in on the crisis by hiking fares.
Also, many commuters took to social media to express their frustration, with some calling for authorities to step in and resolve the matter before it escalates further.
Also Read: Nairobi CBD Matatu Strike Resolved
Super Metro Forcing the Hand of Other Matatus in Nairobi CBD
Super Metro, known for its structured operations and customer-friendly service, has been expanding aggressively and has had its parking space at the Archives.
However, the Kencom stage, one of the most strategic pickup points in Nairobi, has for a long time been controlled by older matatu players, making Super Metro’s entry highly contentious.
It is one of Nairobi’s most strategic transport points, serving thousands of passengers daily.
Therefore, Super Metro’s attempt to establish a presence at Kencom has affected the other operators, who see it as a direct threat to their business.
Also Read: From Matatu Crew to Owners, How a Chama Turned Ksh7K to Millions
Previous Incidents Caused by Super Metro
In a separate incident in March 2024, an incident occurred at Allsops, where a Super Metro driver was filmed in a heated altercation with another motorist in the middle of a highway.
The footage, which led to public uproar, showed the Super Metro employee physically confronting the other driver while their vehicles remained parked by the roadside.
A crowd quickly gathered around the scene, escalating the commotion as passengers disembarked from the bus to witness the scuffle.
Although the extent of damage from the incident was unclear, the altercation disrupted traffic until police officers arrived to intervene and disperse the growing crowd.
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