Nairobi Commuters Stranded as Matatu Strike Paralyzes City Transport
Hundreds of commuters were left stranded across Nairobi on Monday morning after a nationwide public transport strike brought movement in and out of the city to a near standstill.
The industrial action, which officially began at midnight, saw matatus and buses withdraw services from major routes, causing widespread disruption for workers, students, and businesses that rely on public transport every day.
By early morning, large crowds had gathered at bus stops across the capital as passengers waited for vehicles that never arrived. Many frustrated commuters were forced to walk long distances to their workplaces and schools, while others scrambled to find alternative transport options such as boda bodas and taxis, which quickly became overwhelmed by demand.
The strike follows a directive issued by the Transport Sector Alliance on Sunday, May 17, after transport stakeholders unanimously agreed to halt operations countrywide in protest against rising fuel prices.
Operators say the recent fuel price adjustments announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority have made it increasingly difficult for transport businesses to operate sustainably.
The latest review saw petrol and diesel prices rise sharply to record levels, triggering concerns among matatu owners, bus companies, and logistics operators over the increasing cost of operations.
Transport sector representatives argue that continued fuel hikes are pushing the public transport industry to the brink, warning that operators are struggling to cover expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and staff wages.
According to operators, the strike is intended to pressure the government into reconsidering the recent increases and introducing measures to cushion transport players from the high cost of fuel.
The disruption caused massive traffic confusion across Nairobi as thousands of people attempted to reach the city centre on foot. Some roads recorded unusually low traffic volumes due to the absence of public service vehicles, while fuel stations and boda boda stages experienced increased activity.
Several commuters expressed frustration over the situation, saying the sudden transport shutdown had left them with limited options during the busy Monday rush hour.
Others voiced concerns about the economic impact of the strike, especially for casual workers and small business owners who depend on daily movement within the city to earn a living.
The strike has also affected learning institutions, with some students reportedly unable to make it to school on time due to the lack of transport services.
Business activity in parts of the capital slowed significantly as employees arrived late or failed to report to work altogether.
Transport operators maintain that they will continue with the industrial action until the government addresses their concerns regarding fuel prices and operational costs.
Authorities are yet to announce whether discussions are underway to resolve the standoff and restore normal transport services.
Meanwhile, commuters across Nairobi continue to hope for a quick solution as the strike threatens to disrupt economic activity and daily life further if it persists into the coming days.