Nairobi’s central business district came to a dramatic halt as George Ruto — the son of President William Ruto — officially launched his ultra-luxurious Ksh14 million matatu, nicknamed “Mood.”
The highly-anticipated unveiling, held on Friday night at the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), turned into a massive youth-driven celebration of Kenya’s vibrant matatu culture.
The launch kicked off with a short prayer session and the symbolic anointing of the matatu, before transitioning into a fully-fledged concert-style party that featured live entertainment and pulsating music aimed at engaging the city’s youth.
Hundreds of young Kenyans flocked to the KICC grounds to support George Ruto and witness the latest addition to his growing fleet of high-end public service vehicles.
After the concert wrapped up, “Mood” took to the streets for a celebratory cruise through the heart of Nairobi — an appearance that instantly attracted a crowd.
The excitement brought business and traffic in the CBD to a standstill, with hundreds of fans and curious onlookers tailing the matatu as it moved through the city. The scene caused major congestion that lasted for hours, with reports of traffic jams stretching far beyond the city centre.
However, not everyone was thrilled by the chaos. Some Nairobi residents expressed concern over the lack of police presence and rising tension in the streets. Alarming messages circulated online, warning commuters about thugs taking advantage of the situation.
“Nairobi CBD is a crime zone right now. Thugs are in control and no security officers are in sight. If you’re around the CBD, be extremely cautious — the city is basically on lockdown,” one Nairobi resident cautioned.
Despite the disruption, the “Mood” matatu is already being hailed as a game-changer in Kenya’s transport scene. Unlike traditional matatus, this Ksh14 million masterpiece is packed with features that blur the line between public transport and luxury travel.
From custom-designed bucket seats with cup holders and charging ports to air conditioning—a rarity in most matatus—”Mood” offers unmatched comfort.
The vehicle also features a push-to-start ignition, solar-powered systems, and a fully integrated DJ mixing deck built right into the cockpit, making it not just a ride but an entertainment experience. Even the number plate is custom-designed and has been cleared by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
“Mood” joins George Ruto’s growing collection of elite matatus, which includes the famously flashy Manifest (or Moneyfest). His fleet has become a symbol of innovation in the matatu industry, known for pushing boundaries with luxury interiors, modern tech, and top-tier investment.
With “Mood,” George isn’t just making noise — he’s reshaping Kenya’s public transport culture, one high-end matatu at a time.
— The Nairobi Times (@TheNairobiTimez) July 18, 2025
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