- Public transport in Nairobi was disrupted after matatus failed to operate.
- Key roads leading to the CBD experienced heavy traffic and closures.
- Many commuters were forced to walk or seek other transport options.
- Operators blame rising attacks and a lack of government protection.
Nairobi residents faced a difficult Monday morning on February 2 after matatu services failed to operate, leaving thousands stranded.
Public transport disruptions caused widespread confusion as commuters struggled to get to work, school, and other daily commitments.
Several main routes linking estates to the Central Business District were blocked, causing severe traffic jams.
Thika Superhighway, Waiyaki Way, and Outering Road were among the worst affected, with vehicles stuck for hours.
Images shared online showed long lines of passengers waiting helplessly at bus stops across different neighbourhoods.
With matatus off the roads, some residents chose to walk long distances.
Others turned to boda bodas and taxi-hailing services, though prices surged due to high demand.
Security officers were sent to the city centre to control the situation and manage traffic caused by the transport shutdown.
Their presence was aimed at preventing disorder as crowds built up in key areas.
The protest traces back to an announcement made on January 28, when matatu operators declared a nationwide strike.
They cited repeated attacks by boda boda riders, including incidents where minibuses were set on fire.
Operators accused the government of failing to protect them despite the sector’s heavy contribution to national revenue through taxes and fuel charges.
Matatu leaders said they would not resume operations until firm steps are taken to stop the violence.
They argued that transport workers deserve safety like any other citizens.
Their anger has grown after several attacks allegedly went unanswered, with no arrests or clear action taken.
Even as the disruption unfolded, the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) stated that the strike had been suspended to allow dialogue.
According to the federation, meetings involving PSV operators, boda boda representatives, and security agencies agreed to give negotiations a chance before further action is taken.
