Transport in Nairobi came to a standstill on Monday as some matatu operators went on strike, blocking major roads and leaving thousands of commuters stranded across the city.
Despite earlier reports that the strike had been suspended following talks between stakeholders, including the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS), some operators ignored the directive and parked their vehicles along key routes, triggering widespread gridlock.
Traffic chaos was reported along Thika Super Highway, Waiyaki Way, Outer Ring Road, Jogoo Road, and within the Central Business District (CBD), where matatus parked in the middle of the road, bringing movement to a complete halt.
Commuters were forced to turn to alternative means, including boda bodas, ride-hailing services at sharply increased fares, or walking long distances.
“Because of the matatu strike, an expressway ride to town costs Sh 170; normally it would be Sh 120 or Sh 130,” one commuter posted on social media.
The strike stems from rising insecurity on Nairobi roads, particularly incidents in which boda boda riders allegedly attack or burn matatus after accidents—a problem matatu owners say the government has not addressed.
Matatu Owners Association president Albert Karakacha warned that the strike could continue on a weekly basis until the government responds to the sector’s demands.
“We must put measures in place for boda bodas because they are not following the law. So far, 15 matatus have been torched across the country,” Karakacha said, criticising authorities for inaction.
At the same time, some groups in the transport sector announced a suspension of the strike to allow for dialogue, creating confusion among commuters and drivers.
Police were deployed at key junctions across Nairobi to ease congestion. Officers were seen directing traffic and, in some cases, removing number plates from vehicles parked illegally on the roads.
Despite these efforts, congestion persisted well into rush hour, delaying workers, students, and commercial activities.
“I left home at 7:00 am but I was still stuck near the Outer Ring. It feels like the whole city has stopped. I had no choice but to walk the last kilometre,” one frustrated commuter said.
A matatu stage organiser added: “We have tried talking to authorities many times. Every time there is an accident, we lose vehicles and income. We cannot continue working under these conditions.”
With conflicting signals about whether the strike is fully off, Nairobi residents fear more traffic disruptions this week, especially if negotiations stall. Authorities have urged calm and promised further talks with matatu leadership to find a lasting solution.
– By Mark Simitia
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