NAIROBI, Kenya — Commuters in Nairobi were left stranded on Monday morning after a section of the matatu industry defied reports that a planned strike had been suspended, leaving many to walk long distances or rely on boda bodas and ride-hailing services.
The disruption exposed persistent tensions between public service vehicle operators and boda boda riders, with conflicting messages from transport sector leaders fueling uncertainty.
The Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) announced on Sunday that consultations with matatu operators, boda boda representatives, and security agencies had led to a suspension of the strike, aimed at de-escalating conflicts and finding a lasting solution.
However, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) insisted the strike would go ahead, accusing the government of failing to curb growing lawlessness among boda boda riders.
“We must put measures on boda bodas because they are not following the law. So far, 15 matatus have been torched across the country,” MOA President Albert Karakacha told The Star on Sunday.
Karakacha highlighted the financial losses suffered by operators, with some vehicles valued at over KSh7 million destroyed, and demanded government compensation.
“We have written letters and held meetings, but our concerns have been ignored. The only option left is to escalate this matter to the President,” he added.
Boda boda leaders, meanwhile, distanced themselves from the strike, urging dialogue over industrial action.
Kevin Mubadi, National Chairman of the Boda Boda Safety Association, warned that halting matatu services would likely exacerbate tensions, as boda bodas would naturally fill the transport gap.
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“A work stoppage by matatus is unnecessary and could hurt their own business. Both sides should engage the government through talks rather than disruptive actions,” Mubadi said.
The strike comes amid a series of violent incidents targeting matatus, raising concerns about transport sector regulation, public safety, and coordination between authorities and service operators.
Transport analysts note that such disputes underscore the urgent need for comprehensive sector reforms, including clearer licensing rules, improved security measures, and better communication channels between matatu and boda boda operators.
