Matatu owners across Kenya have announced a total nationwide shutdown starting Monday together with an immediate 50 per cent increase in fares. They point to the latest fuel price adjustments by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority as the main reason, saying EPRA is being used to tax Kenyans to death.
The decision came after EPRA announced sharp rises in pump prices, with super petrol going up by more than 16 shillings per litre and diesel jumping even higher in some areas.
Operators say the increases make it impossible to keep running their vehicles without passing the pain to passengers or stopping altogether. Albert Karakacha, who spoke for the Matatu Owners Association, delivered a strong message during a press interaction.
“EPRA is being used to tax Kenyans to death. Buy oil from anywhere and everywhere’, he stated. His words captured the deep anger felt by many in the transport sector who believe the current system hurts both workers and ordinary citizens trying to get around.
The strike is set for Monday, May 18. Operators warn there will be no movement of public service vehicles on that day, with roads potentially blocked until the government listens.
They have also directed all members to raise fares by half right away. A trip that used to cost 100 shillings could now set someone back 150 shillings or more depending on the route.
This development hits hard for millions of Kenyans who rely on matatus daily to reach work, school, markets, and hospitals. In cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, commuters already face long waits and crowded rides.
A sudden jump in prices and a possible total stoppage next week could create real chaos, especially for those living paycheque to paycheque.
One matatu driver in Nairobi, who asked not to be named, described the situation plainly. “Fuel has become too expensive. We cannot afford to keep operating at old rates.
Something has to give.” His view echoes what many owners and operators share privately after watching their margins disappear with each price review.
The timing feels particularly tough. Just as people try to recover from previous economic pressures, another blow to transport costs arrives. Families worry about getting children to school or making it to jobs on time.
Small businesses that depend on moving goods and people could also suffer. Boda boda riders have joined in the calls for higher charges, showing how wide the ripple effects go.
Karakacha mentioned that the government had made promises before that never fully materialised. Operators feel ignored despite repeated appeals for relief on fuel taxes and other levies that affect their work.
They argue that shopping for oil on the open market could bring down costs instead of sticking to arrangements that keep prices high.
EPRA defends the latest adjustments by pointing to global oil trends and exchange rate movements. Yet for those behind the wheel every day, such explanations offer little comfort when expenses climb faster than earnings.
Public frustration is building, with some commuters already refusing higher fares in isolated cases reported over the weekend.
This is not the first time transport operators have pushed back against fuel costs. Similar actions in the past have led to temporary relief or negotiations, but they also disrupt daily life and hurt the wider economy.
Analysts watch closely to see whether talks will happen quickly or if the shutdown drags on.
For now, the message from the association remains firm. They want lower operating costs and fairer policies that consider the realities on Kenyan roads. Monday’s planned action will test how seriously authorities take these grievances.
As the weekend unfolds, many Kenyans are adjusting plans and looking for alternatives. Some may work from home if possible, while others stock up or arrange rides with friends and family.
The coming days will show the true impact on ordinary lives and whether this pressure brings any meaningful response from those in charge.
Transport remains the backbone of daily movement in Kenya. When it falters, everything slows down. Matatu owners have drawn a clear line this time. The coming week could prove decisive in how the standoff resolves and what it means for fuel policy going forward.
Matatu owners declare a nationwide strike Monday and a 50% fare hike after the EPRA fuel price increase. Operators say EPRA taxes Kenyans to death and urge buying oil from anywhere else. Latest updates on the Kenya transport crisis.
