The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced a ban on all matatus donned in offensive graffiti, modified horns and explosive exhaust pipes which cause noise pollution.
The Authority ordered the matatus, which mainly operate in Nairobi, to remove the additional features in three days or risk being banned.
“We know the owners have invested in the PSVs, but violation of laws will not be allowed,” said NTSA Chairman Lee Kinyanjui.
Speaking during a press conference at the Authority's Upper Hill office, the officials accused saccos and company managers of failing to curb the trend that has persisted for more than 20 years.
“We have established that saccos and company managements have encouraged this violation by allowing vehicles to operate, even when they have not complied. We give them until Monday to comply,” said Mr Kinyanjui.
He justified the move saying matatus caused noise pollution along routes near hospitals, schools and offices through persistent honking and rumbling.
He also noted that more matatus that initially abided by the law had joined the group of “rogue” matatus that were not following the law through displaying offensive graffiti, failing to boldly display sacco names and modifying the matatu lighting.
In November 2014, President Uhuru Kenyatta urged the authority to go easy on the matatu regulations to allow young people use their talents in pimping vehicles.
The “matatu culture” has gained national and international recognition including featuring on Time Magazine, which recommended matatu rides as one of the top 10 experiences one should not miss when visiting Nairobi, Kenya
