Commuters across Kenya were stranded as a nationwide PSV strike over fuel prices paralysed transport, causing road blockades and fare hikes.

📻 Breaking It Down

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 18 — Hundreds of commuters across Kenya faced severe transport disruption Monday after a nationwide public service vehicle (PSV) strike over soaring fuel prices paralysed movement in major towns and along key highways.

From Nairobi to Nakuru, Nyandarua and Busia, the coordinated shutdown by matatu operators triggered road blockades, commuter confusion, long walking distances and rising transport costs as security agencies struggled to contain sporadic unrest.

The strike, backed by major PSV operators including Super Metro, Metro Trans, Forward Travellers SACCO, Latema Travellers and Countrylink, exposed the extent to which Kenya’s economy depends on public transport networks.

📌 What You Need to Know

In Nairobi, the Central Business District remained relatively calm despite a sharp decline in PSV operations, with many bus stages deserted during the morning rush hour.

A spot check at usually busy termini including Super Metro and Embassava stages found large sections empty as stranded commuters scrambled for alternative transport.

Thousands of passengers were forced to walk long distances to work after matatus disappeared from major routes, while boda boda operators and ride-hailing services sharply increased fares due to surging demand.

For some commuters travelling from the Nairobi CBD to Eastlands, ride-hailing fares rose from about Sh300 to over Sh700, while boda boda charges also increased significantly.

Police fired teargas around 9:40am to disperse a small group of protesters in the city centre as authorities responded to isolated disturbances.

Road blockades were also reported along Kasarani–Mwiki Road, Outer Ring Road and Donholm as police moved in to restore order.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya