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Whoops! Kirinyaga Woman Rep caught in quagmire as matatu strike intensifies
18th May, 2026 10:31 AM
Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has shared her experience navigating Nairobi’s transport system on Monday, May 18, during the matatu strike, which left many commuters stranded and forced to seek alternative means of travel.
Speaking during a morning interview on Monday, May 18, 2026, Njeri described how difficult it was to secure a ride despite turning to a ride-hailing service.
“I took an Uber, and three drivers cancelled before one eventually agreed to pick me up and drop me off. There are quite many private cars on the road, but regular Kenyans are stranded on their way to work,” she said.
Her statement came as parts of the city experienced reduced matatu operations, with commuters reporting delays, cancellations, and long queues at bus stops.
Commuters hit hard
The disruption followed a strike by operators from the matatu sector and general public protesters who are protesting against rising fuel costs. Demonstrators have taken to the streets and initiated nationwide strikes to protest the severe impact of these price hikes on transportation operations. The operators have raised concerns, which they say are making it difficult to sustain their businesses.
As a result, many matatus have stayed off the roads or operated minimally, leaving commuters dependent on private vehicles and ride-hailing services. Across Nairobi, workers and students were seen stranded or forced to walk long distances as they tried to reach their destinations.
Ride-hailing services stretched
With fewer public transport options available, ride-hailing apps saw a surge in demand. However, users reported frequent cancellations, long waiting times, and increased fares due to high demand and limited driver availability.
Njeri Maina’s experience reflected the wider situation, as even public figures struggled to secure reliable transport.
Some private motorists stepped in to assist stranded commuters, but the support was not enough to ease the overall pressure on the transport system. The ongoing strike has highlighted the fragile balance within Nairobi’s public transport system, where disruptions quickly affect thousands of daily commuters. Negotiations among the parties involved are set to proceed further, although no solution has been announced yet.
