- Advertisement -

Commuters in Kitengela finally got a break on Tuesday after matatu operators suspended their protests over rising fuel prices, allowing transport services to return to normal along the Nairobi-Namanga highway. After a chaotic Monday that saw passengers charged inflated fares and many stranded for hours, travellers were once again paying the standard Sh100 fare between Kitengela and Nairobi.

Highlights

Matatu fares between Kitengela and Nairobi returned to Sh100.
PSV operators suspended protests over high fuel prices.
Monday’s strike disrupted transport in several towns countrywide.
Businesses in Kitengela resumed normal operations after the unrest.
Security presence was increased following tensions during the protests.

Main Story

Transport Services Resume in Kitengela

Normalcy slowly returned to Kitengela after matatu operators resumed operations following the suspension of anti-fuel hike demonstrations that had disrupted public transport services.

Passengers travelling to Nairobi had earlier been forced to dig deeper into their pockets, with some paying up to Sh300 during the height of the strike. However, by Tuesday afternoon, fares had stabilized as more public service vehicles returned to the road.

Strike Had Left Thousands Stranded

The protests, which spread across several towns on Monday, caused major disruptions for commuters across the country. Many passengers were left stranded for hours, while others resorted to walking long distances to reach work or school.

Alternative transport options such as boda bodas and commuter trains experienced a surge in demand as frustrated travellers searched for ways to move around.

Operators Cite Rising Costs

Matatu operators said the decision to resume work followed engagements between representatives from the transport sector and government officials.

Even so, many drivers and conductors admitted they remain frustrated by the continued increase in fuel prices, saying operational costs have become difficult to sustain. Some PSV owners also revealed they are struggling to repay vehicle loans due to reduced profits and rising expenses.

Businesses Reopen After Tense Protests

Business activity in Kitengela also bounced back after shops reopened and traffic flow resumed along the busy Nairobi-Namanga highway.

Security officers remained on high alert following incidents reported during the demonstrations, where sections of roads were barricaded and some motorists allegedly attacked by rowdy groups.

Read Also