A viral video showing a flamboyantly decorated matatu—commonly known as a nganya—recklessly swerving around City Hall/Supreme Court roundabout has reignited debate over Nairobi’s colourful but controversial matatu culture.
The footage, which has shocked netizens and drawn widespread attention online, captures the loud, graffiti-covered minibus, appearing to be on a private hire, dangerously speeding and hooting as it maneuvers around the roundabout.
In a jaw-dropping scene, some passengers are seen cheering, waving from windows, and even clinging to the sides of the tilting vehicle.
Despite the clear danger, the passengers appeared exhilarated by the stunt, chanting and recording the ride on their phones.
Yet critics warned that such stunts pose real dangers. The debate mirrors concerns raised earlier this year after the ‘Uppercut’ matatu crashed in Nyeri, injuring 22 passengers. Hours before the crash, it too had been filmed being driven recklessly along Thika Road.
This latest incident has renewed calls for tighter regulation and enforcement in the public transport sector, even as many continue to embrace the nganya lifestyle as a symbol of Nairobi’s vibrant urban identity.
Authorities have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the incident.
