Matatu operators in Kenya have vowed to continue their strike every Monday until President William Ruto addresses their grievances regarding increasing lawlessness by boda boda operators. The operators are demanding a direct meeting with the president and are back on the streets today, February 9, after a previous strike on January 28.

• Albert Karagacha, President of the Matatu Owners Association, stated the strike would occur every Monday until negotiations with President Ruto.
• The previous strike on January 28 saw matatu operators block key routes in Nairobi, including Thika Super Highway and Waiyaki Way, leading to significant delays and police intervention.
• The Motorist Association of Kenya (MAK) supported the strike, highlighting that "at least nine vehicles, including matatus, buses, trucks, and private cars," have been torched by mobs following road incidents.

Chaos erupted on Monday morning, February 2, 2026, across Nairobi and other major Kenyan towns as a significant portion of the matatu industry went on strike, leaving thousands of commuters stranded and disrupting transport despite conflicting reports of a strike suspension.

• Thousands of commuters were forced to walk long distances or pay hiked fares from services like boda bodas and ride-hailing apps.
• The strike led to protests and road blockages in areas like Kariobangi Roundabout and Tom Mboya Street in the CBD.
• The Matatu Owners Association (MOA), led by president Albert Karakacha, insisted the strike would proceed, citing the government's failure to address "growing lawlessness" among boda boda operators and claiming 15 matatus had been torched.
• The Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) had announced the strike's suspension on Sunday after consultations, highlighting a lack of unity within the matatu sector.

Police in Nairobi CBD responded to a nationwide matatu strike by removing number plates and towing vehicles that were blocking streets. Officers used tear gas to disperse protestors, as they worked to restore normal traffic flow.

• Police removed number plates from vehicles blocking routes such as Outering Road, Thika Superhighway, and Waiyaki Way.
• The strike, announced on January 28, was initiated by matatu operators protesting increasing vehicle-burning incidents by Boda boda operators.
• The Motorist Association of Kenya (MAK) reported that at least nine vehicles have been torched, representing millions of shillings in losses.
• The Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) suspended the strike on Sunday, January 31, for dialogue.