Mwiki Matatu Operators Protest in Kasarani Over Extortion and Insecurity
The demonstrations, led by drivers and conductors operating along the Kasarani–Mwiki–Njiru and Kayole corridors, brought traffic to a standstill and left hundreds of commuters stranded as vehicles were withdrawn from service.
Operators claimed that the situation had deteriorated over the past several weeks, significantly affecting their ability to work and resulting in financial losses.
One operator lamented, “Since the petrol price hike, we have had challenges as conductors and drivers because the money is less, but we still try to help our families. But we have a problem with goons who beat us up, and we are wondering who to ask.”
Another operator stated, “We have been using this spot for over 10 years now, but for the last three weeks, a new sacco was brought to our spot, making it impossible for us to work smoothly.”
The matatu crews further alleged that the introduction of rival operators had disrupted the balance of operations, with claims that the new entrants were making multiple trips in quick succession, reducing opportunities for others.
A conductor added, “The new vehicles sometimes carry like four times before one of our vehicles can make a single trip. We have even gone to our SACCO office, but nothing has been solved.”
The protest quickly spilled into major access roads, affecting movement not only within Kasarani but also parts of the central business district. Commuters were forced to seek alternative means of transport, with some reporting long waits and increased fares due to the disruption.
The unrest comes at a time when public transport operators are already grappling with increased operational costs, largely attributed to rising fuel prices. Many operators say their profit margins have been significantly reduced, making them more vulnerable to external pressures such as extortion and route interference.
Industry stakeholders note that disputes between matatu saccos and unregulated groups have been a recurring challenge in Nairobi’s transport sector, often leading to confrontations and service interruptions.
A transport stakeholder observed, “The matatu sector remains highly competitive and sometimes poorly regulated, which creates room for conflict, especially over lucrative routes.”
Operators insist they will not resume normal services until authorities intervene and address their concerns, including restoring order at designated stages and enhancing security.
One protester declared, “We will not go back to work until those interfering with our operations are removed and our safety is guaranteed.”
The situation has also been exacerbated by an ongoing fuel shortage reported in parts of the city, which has forced some operators to temporarily park their vehicles due to limited supply. This has further strained public transport availability, increasing pressure on the remaining vehicles in operation.
Authorities had not immediately issued a formal response by the time of publication, but commuters and operators alike are now calling for urgent intervention to restore normalcy.
Analysts say the incident highlights broader structural challenges within Nairobi’s public transport system, including regulation gaps, competition for routes, and the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms.
An analyst noted, “Addressing these recurring disputes will require coordinated action between transport authorities, security agencies, and SACCO leadership to ensure a stable and safe operating environment.”
As tensions persist, the disruption underscores the fragile balance within the city’s transport network and the immediate impact such disputes have on daily commuters.
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Mwiki Matatu Operators Protest in Kasarani Over Extortion and Insecurity
