Commuters stranded on Thika Superhighway as matatus withdraw from roads
The nationwide public transport vehicles strike has paralysed transport along the usually busy Thika Superhighway...
✨ Key Highlights
A nationwide public transport strike has caused widespread transportation chaos, leaving thousands of commuters stranded on the Thika Superhighway. The strike, which began early on May 18, 2026, saw a drastic reduction in operating matatus.
- Available matatus and boda boda operators were charging exorbitant fares, with trips costing up to four times the normal price (e.g., Sh200 for a distance normally Sh50).
- Commuters faced significant difficulties reaching work, with some like Duncan Gitonga and Anne Mumbi reporting hours of waiting.
- Youths expressed their discontent by blocking roads and lighting bonfires in Githurai, chanting “One Term.”
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Transport Operators Paralyze Operations Over Record Fuel Price Hike - May 2026
Kenya's transport sector commenced a nationwide shutdown from midnight after 14 industry groups announced no vehicles would operate until the government reverses record-high fuel price increases. Major public transport operators across Kenya suspended services on Monday, May 18, in a nationwide protest against record fuel prices, causing widespread commuter disruption and fears of economic paralysis. Chaos erupted in Nairobi's CBD on Monday as police clashed with protestors and a nationwide transport strike over fuel prices paralysed the capital. The strike, which began early on May 18, 2026, saw a drastic reduction in operating matatus, leaving thousands of commuters stranded on the Thika Superhighway. At the same time, the demonstrations led to widespread destruction and looting, paralyzing transport operations across the country with at least two people killed in Kiambu and Nakuru as protests turned deadly.
