By Lauryne Akoth
Nairobi matatu operators have threatened to down their tools citing their lack of inclusion in the city’s upgrade project by the Nairobi County Government.
Nairobi Governor, Johnson Sakaja had earlier announced a Kshs 8.7B deal with the US Government for infrastructural projects in Nairobi, including the development of walkways, cycle paths, Bus Rapid Transit financing, and enhancements to commuter and pedestrian connectivity.
Transport, and Land Use Development Planning for Nairobi were also part of the deal. According to Sakaja, the county government would also collaborate with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), serving as a representative of the US government in the significant project.
Speaking in a presser on Saturday, the matatu operators noted that several of the bus terminals they utilize throughout the city are experiencing the effects of unexpected road tarmacking projects, catching them off guard and leading to disruptions in their operations.
“The matatu operators have cited violation and impunity being carried out by the Nairobi County government without looking at constitutional requirements, not limited to, a lack of public participation in the implementation of city upgrade program that has already resulted in business losses to our members,” said a representative from the Matatu operators.
They further added that the tarmacking initiatives have immensely impacted their services, as they take place unexpectedly, creating challenges for them to adjust or locate alternative terminals.
“The entire project is happening along Tom Mboya, from Koja, all the way to Haile Selassie, River Road, Latema Road, and Accra Road. The affected termini are where most matatu operators operate from,” Winfred Bosire, the chairperson of the matatu Sacco, remarked.
The matatu owners insisted on an immediate cessation of the renovations on the aforementioned roads, emphasizing their critical role in their operations.
Simultaneously, the operators are urging the Nairobi County government to include them in the planning and development process. The dates of the strike are yet to be confirmed.