Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Thursday, July 13 lifted the Matatu ban on the Nairobi Expressway which was imposed in 2022 following a series of accidents due to overspeeding.
In a statement seen by Kenyans.co.ke, PSVs will now be allowed to operate on the 27-kilometre road on condition that they will observe all the traffic rules.
Murkomen remarked that the government is going to work with the operator MOJA Expressway Company, to ensure that the rules are effected and the road is safe for all motorists.
"Over the months, there has been a gradual increase in the traffic volume with many motorists expressing their satisfaction with the services offered by the Nairobi Expressway. In light of this, I wish to announce that the Government has lifted the suspension of PSVs from using Nairobi Expressway effective immediately," Murkomen announced.
Murkomen observed that the lifting the ban would help address the traffic congestion on major roads in Nairobi.
The Expressway was built to address traffic snarl-ups on Mombasa Road to reduce lost hours and billons that Kenyans lose during the daily commutes.
"I believe that this will have a direct and positive impact on the country's economy, create more jobs, and ensure effective mobility across the city," Murkomen remarked.
"This decision is in line with the Government's focus on making Kenya a global leader in the provision of transport and logistics a key driver of sustainable economic development."
On Wednesday, July 12, the operator closed parts of the road indefinitely following protests that left some parts damaged.
The affected toll stations were Mlolongo, Syokimau and SGR.
"For your safety, we urge all motorists plying the Westlands-Mlolongo route to exit from JKIA and Mlolongo-Westlands bound motorists to safely join the Nairobi Expressway from JKIA Toll Station," the operator announced.
"We ask for your patience as we restore the road to its original state and heighten security before the resumption of operations in the 3 affected Toll Stations."
