Nairobi’s public transport sector is in turmoil as conflicting announcements reveal deep divisions among matatu operators ahead of Monday, February 2, 2026. What began as a unified threat of a nationwide strike over escalating vehicle torchings—often blamed on bodaboda rider impunity—has fractured into rival camps, leaving commuters uncertain and roads potentially gridlocked.
The Matatu Owners Association (MOA), led by President Albert Karakacha, remains defiant. Speaking at a press conference at Bomblast Memorial Park on February 1, Karakacha insisted the strike is proceeding, warning of massive economic fallout. He described the transport sector as a vital economic pillar requiring state-protected security, claiming government inaction could cost billions daily—up to Sh3 billion in losses—and demanded compensation for torched vehicles affecting dozens of families per incident. Joined by allies like Inter-Corridor Mobility Chairman Joseph Kagai and Wasafi Boda Boda Chairman Job Achochi Makori, the group vowed to down tools every Monday until demands for safer roads are met. Kagai emphasized respect for investor property, while Makori highlighted self-regulatory efforts like QR-coded rider IDs and badges to combat internal criminal elements tarnishing the sector’s image.
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