In a city where matatus (public minibuses) are known for their colorful artwork and booming sound systems, one ride is raising the bar Mood, a uniquely customized 25-seater that’s capturing the attention of Nairobians for all the right reasons.
Driven by Leonard Kituu, a seasoned matatu operator with a passion for excellence, Mood is more than just transportation it’s an immersive, high-energy experience.
Linked to George Ruto, son of President William Ruto, the matatu represents a bold blend of modern design, youth culture, and technology.
“This car doesn’t have a lot of issues,” Kituu says with a smile in an interview with Nation. “It only has one color, and the emojis are there to give passengers a good feeling. The artwork features women because, honestly, it’s the ladies who are most drawn to it.”
Mood stands out not just for its aesthetic but for what it delivers.
The matatu is fitted with solar panels that power a massive entertainment system including two 50-inch TVs on the roof and two 55-inch screens on the sides allowing passengers to enjoy nonstop music videos and live mixes during their journey.
“The whole system runs on solar,” Kituu explains proudly, adding that sustainability was a key consideration in the design.
Onboard, DJ Daniel Mbugua, known as DJ Slyze, keeps the energy high with curated playlists that adapt to the crowd.
“There’s no fixed playlist,” he says. “We go with the vibe Bongo, Gengetone, gospel, dancehall, you name it. We play everything except rock.”
An emcee is sometimes on board to engage commuters, making Mood feel more like a mobile party than a matatu.
Mood is also the first matatu in Kenya to feature bucket seats in a reduced 25-seater configuration, arranged in a 2-by-1 layout.
While most matatus squeeze in 32 passengers, Mood trades capacity for comfort and space, creating a VIP feel for daily commuters.
The vehicle even includes a DJ booth a first in the local industry.
At sh150 per trip, Mood is slightly more expensive than a standard matatu, but passengers say the ride is worth every shilling.
“It’s not just about getting from point A to B,” says David Nzeke, the matatu’s conductor. “With Mood, you ride in style, with sound and feeling.”
Kituu, who previously drove other renowned matatus like Manifest and Matrix, sees his role as more than just that of a driver.
“You must be willing not just to drive, but to connect with people,” he says. “This is a calling. I want young people to see that even as a driver, you can stay clean, work hard, and make something of yourself.”
Mood has quickly become a symbol of Nairobi’s urban culture, combining street style, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. For many, it’s not just another flashy ride it’s a statement of creativity and resilience.
As DJ Slyze puts it: “It’s good to have Mood—and even better to be in the mood.”
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