Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja has temporarily suspended his earlier directive to ban matatus from the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD). The move, which was initially aimed at reducing congestion in the city, faced strong opposition from both matatu operators and commuters, prompting a reconsideration of the strategy.
The decision to halt the directive comes amid opposition from matatu operators and commuters, who have raised concerns about the challenges caused by the plan.
Governor Sakaja who had promised in his manifesto to reduce congestion in Nairobi, proposed the removal of matatus from the CBD, suggesting an increase in the number of designated termini and saccos to better manage public transport.
Despite the intended benefits, the plan faced immediate backlash. Matatu operators, represented by groups such as the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) and Kenya Matatu Welfare Association (KMTA), argued that banning their vehicles from the CBD would negatively impact both businesses and passengers.
Commuters also voiced their frustrations, highlighting the inconvenience of multiple transfers and potential exploitation by unscrupulous operators charging exorbitant fares for the last-mile connection.
Following the intense opposition, Governor Sakaja opted to suspend. Matatu operators have urged the county government to prioritize to improve the city’s road infrastructure to ease congestion in the county.
