A looming public transport crisis was averted over the weekend as matatu operators announced the suspension of a nationwide strike that had been scheduled to begin on Monday, February 2, 2026, following intense consultations with boda boda associations, security officials and transport regulators.
The strike threat emerged amid escalating tensions between matatu (public service vehicles) operators and boda boda (motorcycle taxi) riders, which had been marked by a series of vehicle arson attacks and violent reprisals after accidents involving the two transport groups. Operators said they were responding to a perceived lack of government action on road insecurity and repeated episodes of mob justice that have cost industry members their vehicles and disrupted operations.
Last week, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) and other transport sector groups had called for a nationwide shutdown in protest of what they described as government inaction and the increasing frequency of attacks on matatus by angry boda boda riders and other road users. Some lobby groups warned that the strike could paralyse transport networks in major towns and cities, affecting daily commuters and essential travel.
The decision to suspend the planned strike followed a series of meetings between transport stakeholders and security agencies, including representatives of matatu and boda boda operators, the National Police Service and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
A joint statement by the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) said the consultations were aimed at creating space for further engagement on key issues affecting the transport sector, including safety on roads, enforcement of regulations and the security of transport operators and passengers.
Under the agreement, public transport services will operate as usual across the country on Monday and in the coming days, providing relief for millions of Kenyans who rely on matatus for daily commuting.
Underlying Tensions and Broader Impact
The suspension of the industrial action reflects deeper challenges facing Kenya’s transport industry, where boda boda-related incidents including cases where riders have torched matatus following fatal or serious collisions have fueled mistrust and frustration among operators. Police reports and eyewitness accounts detail several such incidents in recent months, highlighting the urgency of addressing road safety and law enforcement gaps.
Transport analysts say that the ongoing confusion with some groups insisting the strike will go ahead while others agreed to halt action underscores the complexity of finding common ground among the diverse players in Kenya’s transport ecosystem. Authorities have acknowledged the need for stronger safety measures on the roads and enhanced collaboration among transport operators to prevent further clashes.
With the immediate crisis averted, stakeholders have scheduled broader consultations involving a wider range of participants, including private vehicle owners, freight and coach operators, taxi associations and additional representatives from security agencies. The aim is to develop a more sustainable framework that addresses the sector-wide concerns that sparked the strike notice.
