Matatu and Truck Operators Plan Strike Over Roadside Arson Attacks

Kenya’s transport operators have announced plans for a nationwide shutdown from Monday, 2 February, citing a surge in vehicle attacks and what they describe as a failure by authorities to protect motorists and passengers.

The proposed strike was announced in Nairobi by representatives of matatu owners, truck drivers, bus companies and private motorists, who say incidents of vandalism and arson have become increasingly common on major roads. Operators report that vehicles involved in accidents are frequently set on fire by mobs, often in public view and without intervention.

The Intercorridor Mobility Association said at least nine vehicles were torched in January alone, including public service vehicles and private cars. One of the most recent cases occurred on 28 January, when a matatu was burned on Juja Road following a collision. Similar incidents were reported late last year along Thika Super Highway and in parts of western Kenya.

Joseph Kagai, chairman of the Intercorridor Mobility Association, said the situation had become untenable for investors and transport workers. He said that operators had suffered losses running into millions of shillings, while passengers were increasingly fearful of travelling. Kagai warned that services would be suspended nationwide unless decisive action was taken. He said the sector could not operate in an environment where mob violence replaces lawful processes.

Transport operators are demanding accountability from the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Coordination and the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport. They are calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for attacks, stronger preventive measures, and clear assurances of safety for motorists and passengers.

The Matatu Welfare Association echoed these concerns, saying the lack of effective enforcement had left operators exposed to criminal elements. Its vice chairman, John Katimbwa, warned that allowing citizens to fend for themselves risked undermining public order. Truck operators, represented by Kennedy Karisa, said heavy commercial vehicles had also been targeted and described the problem as persistent and unresolved.

Private motorists, through the Motorists Association of Kenya, said they had repeatedly raised concerns with authorities, including issuing a formal ultimatum, but had received no response. They said the continued attacks demonstrated a breakdown in road safety.