News19 May 2026 - 11:04

[PHOTOS] Kenyans turn to trains, trekking amid matatu strike

Passengers were seen scrambling to board commuter trains as demand surged amid the absence of matatus from the roads.

by PERPETUA ETYANG

Audio By Vocalize

Commuters scramble to board a train as passengers seek alternative transport during the ongoing matatu strike amid a nationwide matatu strike sparked by rising fuel prices, on May 19, 2026./DOUGLAS OKIDDY

Commuters across Nairobi were forced to seek alternative transport on Tuesday as a nationwide matatu strike disrupted public mobility, with many residents turning to trains or walking long distances to reach their destinations.

At major transport hubs in Nairobi, passengers were seen scrambling to board commuter trains as demand surged amid the absence of matatus from the roads.

Others opted to walk along major highways, including Jogoo Road, as the strike grounded much of the public transport system.

Commuters waiting at railway stations had no choice but to switch to rail services, which remained one of the few available options during the disruption triggered by rising fuel prices.

The strike, which affected multiple routes across the country, has been linked to ongoing protests by transport operators over increased fuel prices.