Matatu operators in Nairobi have warned that they may halt operations if they continue being excluded from the city’s ongoing facelift project, which they say is affecting their businesses.

Operators say that several of the city’s key matatu terminals are being disrupted by unplanned tarmacking, leaving them unprepared and struggling to continue services.

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Jairus Okatsa, speaking on behalf of matatu operators, stated that the Nairobi County government is implementing projects without proper public engagement, violating constitutional requirements and causing financial losses to their members.

Winfred Bosire, chairperson of one matatu Sacco, explained that the affected areas stretch along Tom Mboya Street, from Koja to Haile Selassie Avenue, River Road, Latema Road, and Acra Road—major hubs where many matatus operate daily.

The operators are demanding inclusion in the planning stages to ensure their routes and terminals are considered before work continues.

Commuter Impact: Residents using matatus in the affected corridors may experience delays or temporary route changes. Commuters are advised to plan for extra travel time, consider alternative routes, or use other transport modes while construction continues.

The situation is developing, and Nairobi County officials have yet to publicly respond to the operators’ demands.

Source: Citizen Reporter, Citizen