Chaos in Nairobi CBD as Matatu Operators Defy Strike Suspension
Chaos broke out in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Monday morning after some matatu operators went ahead with a planned strike despite earlier calls to suspend the action.
The move caused massive traffic disruption across key roads in and around the capital, leaving thousands of commuters stranded.
The situation escalated after matatu operators blocked Outering Road at the busy Kariobangi Roundabout, bringing traffic to a complete halt.
The blockade was reportedly staged by Forward Travellers matatu operators, who parked several vehicles across the roundabout, making the road completely impassable.
Outering Road is a major transport link connecting the eastern and northern parts of Nairobi, and its closure quickly triggered widespread disruption.
Motorists and commuters were left stuck for hours as traffic movement in and out of Kariobangi came to a standstill.
Long queues of vehicles formed on feeder roads, with drivers struggling to find alternative routes. Many commuters were forced to walk long distances or wait indefinitely as the situation worsened.
At the same time, motorists using the busy Thika Road reported severe traffic congestion, with vehicles barely moving for extended periods. The snarl-up left many passengers stranded, some missing work, school, and business appointments.
Along Waiyaki Way, the situation was equally chaotic as matatus blocked lanes leading into the city, further paralysing movement.
Those travelling from areas such as Uthiru, Kabete, Kinoo, and even long-distance travellers from Nakuru and parts of western Kenya were hit hard by the disruptions. Many reported significant delays, while others were forced to abandon their journeys altogether.
Within the CBD, several buses were seen blocking sections of Tom Mboya Street at the junction with Ronald Ngara Street near the KTDA building.
This area serves as a key bus stop for matatus heading to Umoja, Donholm, and Githurai. The blockage caused confusion and congestion, as commuters struggled to access transport while traffic police attempted to manage the situation.
Meanwhile, residents travelling from Eastlands into the city reported being dropped off along Jogoo Road. According to passengers, touts informed them that SACCOs had instructed matatus not to enter the CBD due to the ongoing strike, forcing commuters to complete their journeys on foot or seek alternative transport.
The strike affected not only public service vehicles but also private cars and commercial trucks. As a result, workers, students, and businesses that rely on these major routes experienced serious delays and disruptions, with some businesses opening late or operating below capacity.
Motorists have been advised to avoid the Kariobangi Roundabout and Outering Road until further notice. Road users are also being urged to seek alternative routes where possible.
Commuters have been encouraged to allow extra travel time and to postpone non-essential travel as authorities work to restore normalcy.
Matatu operators had earlier announced plans for a nationwide strike on January 28 to protest the alleged torching of their vehicles by boda boda operators.
They accused the government of failing to address growing hostility and insecurity faced by public transport operators. Other road users, including truck drivers, had also signalled intentions to join the shutdown.
However, on Sunday, February 1, the Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS) announced the suspension of the strike to allow room for dialogue among all stakeholders.
The decision was meant to calm tensions and prevent disruption. Despite this announcement, some operators appeared to ignore the directive, leading to the widespread chaos witnessed across Nairobi on Monday morning.
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