City Hall to Limit Matatu Numbers on Nairobi Routes

Nairobi's public transportation sector faces a significant restructuring as City Hall proposes the Nairobi City County Permit to Operate Regulations, 2025. 

These regulations aim to streamline the matatu industry by controlling route capacity, implementing cashless fare payments, and regulating pricing structures. The move, however, has ignited substantial backlash from matatu operators who argue the county government is overstepping its boundaries. Under the proposed framework, the County Executive Committee Member (CEC) for Public Transport and Mobility will regulate the number of matatus operating on specific routes. 

This will be guided by annual capacity assessments, adjusted according to population growth and congestion levels. While minor variances in fleet sizes will be permitted, deviations exceeding 10% will require explicit county approval. The county administration argues the changes will enhance efficiency and ease congestion, a persistent challenge in Nairobi's transport network. Operators will be required to obtain operating permits valid for five years, the cost of which is yet to be disclosed. 

A central aspect of the reforms is the transition to cashless fare payment systems, mandating operators to install electronic fare collection machines. The regulations also encourage private sector involvement in implementing these changes. Fare structuring will also undergo significant changes. Each matatu Sacco will be required to submit a detailed fare schedule before securing a permit. This schedule must account for factors like time of travel, day of the week, passenger category, and seating arrangements. Uniformed school children and infants held on laps will travel free within the county.

Nairobi County aims to streamline passenger pick-up and drop-off locations, designating specific public service transport terminals. Matatus will be restricted to these designated stops, with touting and parking exceeding 40 minutes prohibited. Violations will result in fines ranging from KSh50,000 to KSh100,000, and potential license revocation.

The proposed regulations have encountered strong opposition. During a public forum at Greenpark Terminus, matatu operators voiced their concerns. Joseph Kagai, representing Sowetam Travellers Sacco, questioned the county's rationale for regulating fleet sizes, deeming it an unfair restriction. Wilfred Bosire, Secretary General of the Mass Mobility Operators Association, criticized City Hall for crafting policies without stakeholder input. He advocated for a joint committee with Sacco representatives to ensure fair regulations.

City Hall maintains the reforms will introduce transparency and fairness into the sector, which has long been plagued by inconsistencies. Moses Kuiyaki, Director of Mobility at Nairobi City County, defended the initiatives, emphasizing the need for a structured and transparent permitting system. He highlights the need for transparent systems that also allow for new routes, addressing instances where matatus have been barred from operating without clear justification.