[PHOTOS] Matatus stay off roads as nationwide strike takes effect

Buses parked at the Kitengala matatu stage in Kajiado County on May 18 /GEORGE OWITI

Movement was disrupted in several parts of the country on Monday after a nationwide matatu strike over soaring fuel prices paralysed transport services.

The Kenya Red Cross named Nairobi, Mombasa, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, Kisumu, Embu Murang’a and Makueni countie among the areas affected by the industrial action.

The organisation reported disruptions along Thika Road, Kitengela, Rongai, Machakos Junction and North Airport Road, with many commuters forced to walk long distances after failing to secure transport.

The disruption followed a joint statement issued on Sunday, May 17, by the Transport Sector Alliance announcing a nationwide shutdown of operations in protest against the recent fuel price increase by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).

The Truckers Association of Kenya also joined matatu operators in threatening a nationwide strike over the sharp rise in fuel prices.

In its latest review, EPRA indicated that the cost of Super Petrol and Diesel has gone up by Sh16.65 and Sh46.29 per litre, respectively, while the price of Kerosene remains unchanged.

In Nairobi, super petrol, diesel and kerosene retail at Sh214.25, Sh242.92 and Sh152.78 respectively.

The shutdown is expected to disrupt business operations and movement across the country, with school administrators warning that transport challenges will make it difficult for learners to report for classes.

Matatu operators park their motor vehicles as passengers struggle to get to their respective destinations in Kitengela, Kajiado County on May 18 / GEORGE OWITI

A deserted Kitengala matatu stage in Kajiado county on May 18 /GEORGE OWITI

Commuters in Eldoret opt for boda boda as matatus kept off the road on May 18 /MATHEWS NDANYI

Clear streets in Eldoret as matatus operators downed tools on May 18 /MATHEWS NDANYI

Clear streets in Eldoret as matatus operators downed tools on May 18 /MATHEWS NDANYI