Transport in and out of Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) was thrown into disarray for the better part of Thursday as matatu operators blocked major roads in protest against Governor Johnson Sakaja’s decision to allocate their termini to hawkers.
The standoff, which began early in the morning, saw hundreds of stranded commuters scrambling for alternative transport or resigning themselves to long waits. The disruption paralyzed key roads, with the ensuing fracas leaving at least one tout injured.
“We’ve been stuck here since 9 a.m.,” lamented Eliud Macharia, a commuter caught in the chaos. “I had to call my supervisor to explain that I might not make it to the office. It’s frustrating.”
Matatu Operators Cry Foul
The protest was sparked by the county’s decision to relocate street vendors from Nairobi’s uptown areas to spaces traditionally used by matatus for picking up and dropping off passengers.
Albert Karakacha, chairperson of the Matatu Owners Association, defended the operators, stating that they were simply fighting for their right to work.
“There was a crisis within the CBD because hawkers were trying to invade matatu parking spaces,” Karakacha explained. He emphasized that matatu operators pay seasonal parking fees to the county and should not be displaced unfairly.
Operators from KMO, Zuri, and MSL Saccos were among those affected. One matatu driver, speaking anonymously, insisted that they had no choice but to take action.
“We’ve been here since this morning. We won’t move until the county government listens to us,” he declared.
A termini official echoed these concerns, stating that hawkers took over the space at dawn without prior notice, effectively barring matatus from operating.
Temporary Truce, Uncertain Future
By midday, Nairobi remained at a standstill, with commuters growing increasingly frustrated and matatu operators remaining defiant.
However, a temporary truce was reached following a meeting between Nairobi County Chief Officer of Mobility Machel Waikenda and representatives from both sides.
“We have agreed that relocating hawkers does not mean matatus should vacate. Both parties must collaborate to ensure order in the city,” Waikenda said.
