Public transport disruptions were reported in several parts of Kenya on Monday, February 2, as sections of the matatu industry stayed off the roads despite an official notice announcing the suspension of a planned nationwide strike.
The disruptions followed days of confusion in the transport sector after matatu operators and other road users threatened industrial action over rising incidents of vehicle torching and alleged government inaction.
Disruption on Kenyan Roads
Early morning reports from Nairobi on social media platform X indicated reduced matatu activity along major corridors, leaving thousands of commuters stranded at bus stops in the central business district and residential estates.
Long queues were observed along Tom Mboya Street, Kenyatta Avenue, Jogoo Road, and Thika Road as some operators kept their vehicles in yards, citing safety concerns.
Commuters were forced to walk long distances or seek alternative transport, including boda bodas and ride-hailing services, which charged higher fares due to increased demand.
The Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) acknowledged the disruptions in a public statement, saying it had received reports of service interruptions in some areas.
The federation said the incidents were localized and that engagement with stakeholders and security agencies was ongoing to restore normal services.
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Members of the public were advised to avoid affected routes as updates were issued.
“We are receiving reports of disrupted public transport operations in some areas. These incidents are localized, and engagement is ongoing to address the situation. Members of the public are advised to avoid affected areas as updates are shared,” read the statement by FPTS.
FTPS and MOA Divided
The disruptions came against the backdrop of a threatened nationwide strike by matatu operators scheduled for February 2, which FPTS announced had been suspended following consultations with boda boda operators, public service vehicle associations, and security agencies.
However, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) maintained that the strike would proceed, exposing deep divisions within the sector and contributing to uncertainty on the roads.
Matatu operators have accused the government of failing to act decisively against the torching of vehicles by mobs, often involving boda boda riders after road accidents.
According to operators’ statements and media reports, at least nine vehicles, including matatus, buses, trucks and private cars, were set ablaze in separate incidents in January along major routes such as Juja Road, the Thika Superhighway, and the Nairobi–Nakuru highway.
Some vehicles destroyed were valued at more than Sh7 million.
MOA chairperson Albert Karakacha said the strike was intended to compel authorities to enforce the law and protect private property.
He said matatu owners had repeatedly written to the police, the transport ministry and regulators without success.
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Operators also raised concerns that many matatus are uninsured, leaving owners liable for total losses when vehicles are destroyed.
Economic Challenge for Kenya
The matatu sector is one of Kenya’s most significant economic drivers, including employment, public revenue and daily productivity.
Industry and government estimates show that matatus account for more than 70 per cent of urban commuter trips in cities such as Nairobi, making them the backbone of public transport.
Nationwide, about 60,000 matatus and buses operate daily, generating an estimated Ksh900 million in revenue every day, translating to more than Ksh300 billion annually.
The sector is also a major employer.
Estimates indicate that matatus directly and indirectly support over two million jobs, including drivers, conductors, mechanics, fuel attendants, SACCO staff, and informal traders at stages and termini.
Most of these jobs fall within the informal economy, which accounts for about 85 per cent of new employment in Kenya.
Matatu operations contribute heavily to public finances through fuel taxes, levies, licences, and fees.
In the 2024/2025 financial year, the Road Maintenance Levy alone generated about Ksh120 billion, funding road upkeep nationwide.
Disruptions in the sector, therefore, carry immediate economic consequences.
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