NAIROBI, Kenya- Movement has been severely disrupted across several parts of Kenya following a nationwide strike by players in the transport sector over rising fuel prices.
The industrial action, which began early Monday, affected public transport operations in major towns and highways, leaving thousands of commuters stranded and forcing many to walk long distances to work and school.
Counties hit by the disruption include Nairobi, Mombasa, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, Kisumu, Embu, Murang’a and Makueni.
In Nairobi, sections of the usually busy Thika Road appeared unusually deserted as matatus stayed off the roads.
Bonfires were lit in some areas as transport operators and protesters blocked sections of roads leading into the city.
Heavy disruption was also reported in Kitengela, Rongai, Machakos Junction and along North Airport Road, where commuters struggled to access public service vehicles.
Taxi operations, boda boda transport and cargo movement were also affected in several towns.
The strike has been linked to the recent increase in fuel prices, with transport operators accusing the government of failing to cushion Kenyans from the high cost of fuel.
Operators say the rising prices of diesel and petrol have made it difficult to sustain transport business operations.
Many commuters were seen trekking for kilometres after failing to secure transport, while businesses in some towns opened late due to the transport paralysis.
In Mombasa, transport activities slowed significantly as operators joined the strike, affecting movement within the city and neighbouring areas.
Similar scenes were witnessed in Kisumu, Embu and Murang’a, where passengers remained stranded at bus stages.
The Kenya Red Cross said it was closely monitoring the situation as the strike continued to unfold across the country.
Authorities are yet to announce a breakthrough in talks with transport sector players, raising fears that the disruption could persist if no agreement is reached.
The transport sector plays a critical role in Kenya’s economy, with millions relying on matatus and other forms of public transport for daily movement.
Continued disruption is expected to affect business operations, school attendance and cargo distribution if the standoff drags on.
Here is a list of key areas affected by the ongoing strike;
Key Areas Affected
- Nairobi
- Mombasa
- Kiambu
- Machakos
- Kajiado
- Kisumu
- Embu
- Murang’a
- Makueni
- Thika Road
- Kitengela
- Rongai
- Machakos Junction
- North Airport Road
