Nairobi’s CBD ground to a halt for hours as President William Ruto’s son, George Ruto, unveiled his flashy new matatu, Mood.
George held a concert at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Friday night to mark the debut of his Ksh14 million matatu.
The ceremony consisted of a brief prayer session and the anointing of the matatu, followed by a full entertainment concert for the youth.
Hundreds of young people showed up at the KICC to support the President's son and celebrate matatu culture. Upon completion of the concert, the CBD was brought to a standstill as the matatu took a brief drive through the city centre.
Hundreds of youths accompanied the matatu, causing traffic snarl-ups in the vicinity that lasted for hours into the night.
The disruption sparked tension among Nairobians making their way home, with some reports warning residents to be wary of goons.
"Nairobi CBD is currently a crime scene. Thugs have taken over the city. There are no police officers present in the Nairobi CBD or at the KICC. Please stay on high alert if you happen to be in Nairobi City. It's a total shutdown," a concerned Nairobian warned.
Mood signals a new shift in Kenya's matatu culture, a first of its kind due to the unique features it boasts.
The vehicle reportedly cost Ksh14 million and comes with a custom number plate said to be approved by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
Passengers aboard the matatu will enjoy custom-made bucket seats, each fitted with a cup holder and charging port. It is also fully air-conditioned, a breath of fresh air compared to the stuffy and congested environment common in other matatus.
Other standout features include a modern push-to-start ignition system, solar power, and DJ decks installed right in the cockpit.
In addition to Mood, George is associated with other popular matatus such as Manifest (also known as Moneyfest). His fleet is renowned for its luxury finishes and high-end investments.
