Kenya Matatu Strike Disrupts Transport Nationwide After Fuel Price Hike

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NAIROBI: A nationwide strike by sections of Kenya’s public transport operators disrupted movement across major towns and cities on Monday, stranding commuters and highlighting growing pressure over rising fuel costs in the country.

In the capital Nairobi, hundreds of commuters were left stranded after many matatus operating on key routes suspended services from midnight, leaving bus parks and stages unusually quiet during the morning rush hour.

The disruption was also reported in other urban centres including Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret, where passengers struggled to find transport following the strike call by the Transport Sector Alliance.

Thousands of commuters heading to work and schools were forced to walk long distances or seek alternative means of transport after many matatus and buses downed their tools in protest against higher fuel prices announced last week by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority.

Several transport saccos announced suspension of operations until further notice in solidarity with the nationwide action.

“In view of the matatu strike slated for tomorrow, we will not be in operation. We shall communicate when services will resume,” Super Metro sacco said in a statement on Sunday.

The alliance demanded an immediate reversal of the fuel price increase announced on May 14 and called for petrol and diesel prices to be reduced to about 152 Kenyan shillings ($1.18) per litre.

The group also demanded the resignation of Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and the disbandment of the energy regulator, accusing authorities of failing to shield consumers from rising costs.

The strike adds to mounting economic pressure in Kenya and across East Africa, where rising fuel and commodity prices have pushed up transport fares, food costs and inflation in recent years.

Kenya serves as a regional trade and transport hub for neighbouring countries including Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan and Democratic Republic of the Congo, making fuel prices in the country closely watched across the region due to their impact on cargo transport and supply chains.

Transport operators said higher pump prices were increasing operational expenses and making it difficult to maintain fares without passing costs to passengers already struggling with a high cost of living.

The National Police Service said the strike had limited support and urged Kenyans to continue with their normal activities.

Police said security had been heightened nationwide and noted that the United Transport Association of Kenya had distanced itself from the strike, saying many operators remained in service despite the disruption.