The matatu industry is undoubtedly one of the hallmarks of the Kenyan culture with the public means of transport becoming the go-to choice for many Kenyans.
The reputation in the industry has, however, changed over the years - attracting praise from some and drawing backlash from others.
But in a bid to sanitise the industry, a number of saccos have risen to establish excellence and superiority within the market. From Zuri, Chania Genesis, Runa, to Lopha, a number of Saccos have essentially created an aura of dominance within the industry.
Kenyans.co.ke takes a look at the brains behind these saccos that have established supremacy.
Chania Genesis / Kibwezi
The Chania brand has become synonymous with the Thika superhighway route alongside Manchester Sacco. However, in a bid to set itself apart from its competitors, the sacco's stage is located along the busy Luthuli Avenue.
The matatus charge at a normal rate of Ksh100 from Nairobi to Thika. However, the rates may differ depending on the traffic and demand from the public. The Chania Genesis Sacco is managed by Joel Mwangi while Chania Kibwezi, which plies along Nairobi, Thika, Machakos, Kibwezi route, is owned by Stephen Muiruri.
Zuri
One of the most renowned saccos in the industry, Zuri has become a favourite for Nairobi residents plying the Nairobi, Roysambu, Zimmerman, Githurai 44. Described as 'super clean with disciplined conductors', they have set themselves apart from their customers for their choice of soothing music as well as professionalism in their operations.
During peak hours, Nairobi residents plying the route pay a fare of Ksh50 which can increase to Ksh60 depending on the traffic and market demand.
According to the list of registered companies from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the Zuri is managed by eight directors who include Gabriel Mwangi, James Karanja, Beth Wanjiru, Tabitha Gatheca, Gladys Njeri, Alice Wangui, Mathew Njogu and Grace Wangari.
Embassava
Embassava serves residents who ply route 33/34 that includes Embakasi, Savannah, Utawala, Tena, Muthurwa, Jogoo Road as well as Mombasa Road, Embassava Saccos was formed in August 2001 after being transformed from a Welfare Association Saving Scheme.
At the time, the sacco had only 42 registered members as it sought to establish itself within the competitive industry. However, over the years, it has grown to more than 500 members. The Sacco is owned by John Odhiambo Ongaro.
Lopha
Lopha Travelers is arguably one of the most renowned Saccos that has received raging reviews due to its class and professionalism. The sacco's stage, located along Moi Avenue, has attracted customers plying the Thika Superhighway route.
Lopha is owned by twelve shareholders who manage its operations. Some of the shareholders include Ephantus Ithagu, James Mungai, Benson Lengete, Harrison Kamau, Alexander Waiganjo, Francis Thuku.
Manchester Travelers
Much like the Chania Travellers Sacco, Manchester has amassed a cult-like following with customers queueing for seats in its fleet in the Central Business District (CBD).
The Sacco offers both the express route for the customers seeking to arrive in Nairobi on time while also consisting of some matatus that drop and picks passengers along designated stages along Thika road.
The Sacco is owned by Joseph Omwega Otungo who also serves as its chairman.
Runa
The matatu, which plies along the Nairobi-Ruiru route, has become the go-to Sacco for the majority of users. The Sacco was lauded recently after one of its conductors and drivers returned a passenger's laptop and equipment. The sacco is ran by Peter Njoroge Kamau.
