Matatus Block Road in Kahawa West After Super Metro Entry

A photo collage of matatus blocking the Kahawa West roundabout stage, Nairobi on April 18, 2023.
A photo collage of matatus blocking the Kahawa West roundabout stage, Nairobi on April 18, 2023.
Photo: Timothy Mundia

Matatus on Tuesday, April 18, blocked Kahawa West roundabout in protest of Super Metro's entry along the route.

The Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) paralysed operations along the Roysambu road as well as the Kahawa West roundabout with no passengers being picked or dropped at the designated stage. 

The standoff led to a build-up in traffic during rush hour as passengers sought alternative options to head to their respective workplaces. 

Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, an official from Super Metro company alleged that other matatu Saccos operating at the stage resisted their expansion move, fearing competition.

Photo collage between Super Metro bus and a BasiGO electric bus picking up passengers in Nairobi CBD
Photo collage between a Super Metro bus and a BasiGO electric bus picking up passengers in Nairobi CBD in November 2022.
Photo
Super Metro

"They feared competition so they blocked the stage. They blocked the Roysambu all the way to Kahawa West and also the roundabout stage," he stated.

The official claimed that a meeting took place on Monday, April 17, between the Saccos to assess Super Metro's entry and how they would disrupt operations on the new route.

He noted that traffic officers, who rushed to the scene, contained the situation, allowing normal traffic flow. 

"The police affirmed that we are licensed and have the requisite documents to operate," he pointed out.

The news came a day after Super Metro announced entry onto the Kahawa West route on Monday, April 17.

The Sacco added over 100 new fleets to various routes for efficient service delivery. The company also offered free rides to passengers from morning to evening.

Commuters were advised to access the buses at either the Sacco's main stage at the Central Business District (CBD) or at Kahawa West roundabout.

"Kindly note that we have more than 100 new fleets that we shall distribute in all our different routes. Our main aim is to serve you our esteemed clients better and better," the statement read in part.

An image of a new fleet of Super Metro buses unveiled during launch on November 4, 2021.
An image of a new fleet of Super Metro buses unveiled during launch on November 4, 2021.
Photo
Super Metro