Operations along Waiyaki Way in Nairobi’s Westlands area were disrupted after a section of matatu operators staged protests over what they described as repeated attacks on public service vehicles by boda boda riders.
Police were forced to intervene, firing tear gas canisters to disperse the demonstrators and restore order along the busy highway.
The protests come amid rising tensions in the public transport sector, following reports in late January and on February 1, 2026, that matatu operators were planning a nationwide strike starting Monday, February 2, to protest the destruction of vehicles allegedly torched by boda boda riders after road accidents.
Matatu owners say the situation has become untenable, accusing boda boda operators of acting with impunity.
According to the Matatu Owners Association (MOA), at least 15 matatus have been set ablaze across the country since the beginning of 2026, resulting in heavy financial losses for operators and investors.
While some stakeholders, including the Federation of the Public Transport Sector, indicated that an agreement had been reached on February 1 to temporarily suspend the strike to allow for dialogue, other factions remained defiant.
Elements within the MOA insisted that protests and disruptions would continue until the government takes firm action to protect public service vehicles and their crews.
The demonstrations in Westlands are part of a wider standoff that has threatened to paralyze major transport corridors in Nairobi, including Waiyaki Way and the Thika Superhighway, raising concerns over commuter disruptions and public safety.
Security agencies have since convened meetings with representatives from both matatu and boda boda groups, promising increased vigilance and intervention to prevent further violence and destruction of property.
On their part, the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya has called for dialogue, warning that a matatu shutdown could further escalate tensions.
The association has also disputed claims of widespread impunity among boda boda riders, urging authorities to address the issue through engagement rather than confrontation.
As of Sunday evening, the status of the planned nationwide strike remained unclear, with some groups backing talks while others continued to threaten disruptions from February 2, underscoring the fragile and volatile state of the transport sector.
Night guard killed, two injured in robbery at godown in Athi River, Machakos County
