Proposed new regulations aimed at overhauling Nairobi’s chaotic public transport system, dominated by privately-owned matatus, have ignited a fierce backlash from operators.
The Matatu Association has voiced strong opposition, arguing that several of the rules are impractical and ill-conceived.
Here’s a list of the key proposed regulations that have sparked this uproar:
1. Ban on Touting
The new rules seek to eliminate the widespread practice of touting at matatu termini.
This involves individuals aggressively soliciting passengers for specific vehicles, often contributing to the congestion and disorder at these hubs.
Operators fear this will make it harder to fill their vehicles quickly.
2. Mandatory Orderly Queuing
Passengers will be required to queue in an orderly manner to board matatus.
While intended to bring order, matatu operators like Wilfred Bosire, the Matatu Association Secretary-General, argue that controlling the movement of people picking up passengers away from main termini will be exceedingly difficult to enforce.
3. Cashless Payment Systems
A contentious proposal mandates that all matatus be fitted with cashless payment systems.
The Matatu Association has vehemently opposed this, with Bosire citing concerns about meeting daily targets due to potential corruption associated with cash payments, which drivers and conductors often rely on.
4. Route Vehicle Limits
The Nairobi County government plans to limit the number of matatus plying specific routes as part of a broader strategy to decongest the city.
This proposal has been met with strong resistance from operators, such as Mike Muchiri from Forward Travellers Sacco, who worry about the impact on their businesses and loan repayments for vehicles acquired to serve those routes.
5. Free Transport for School Children
The proposed regulations include a provision exempting school-going children from paying matatu fares.
While potentially beneficial for families, this aspect has likely added to the concerns of operators regarding reduced revenue.
Failure to comply with these new rules could result in significant penalties for matatu operators, including fines ranging from Ksh50,000 to Ksh100,000 and the potential revocation of their operating licenses by the county government.
Despite the strong opposition, Nairobi County Director of Mobility Moses Kuiyaki insists that these regulations are essential to restore order and dignity within the Central Business District (CBD), emphasising the need for matatus to adhere to designated picking and dropping points.
The standoff between the county government and matatu operators sets the stage for a potentially disruptive implementation phase if these rules are enforced.
