A report by the 2022 Economic Survey indicated a decline in matatu registrations for the second consecutive year, with 1,024 and 822 vehicles respectively.
Drive along Mombasa Road, and it's clear that private cars have become the norm, outnumbering matatus. The matatu, once the epitome of innovation and entrepreneurship, is now struggling to stay afloat.
Thanks to ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt, and the rise of gated communities, carpooling has become the preferred mode of transportation. As living standards improve, people are seeking a more comfortable and reliable way to travel.
According to Gavin Kitching, a British author and professor of Social Sciences at the University of New South Wales, the informal sector, including the matatu, is 'a place where people go whose only options are worse.'
The matatu's demise is not just a matter of technological disruption but also a shift in consumer preferences. With the rollout of BRT and improved road infrastructure, the matatu's business model is becoming increasingly unsustainable.
However, it's unlikely that the matatu will disappear completely. It may reappear in a different form, perhaps as a more organized and efficient public transport system.
The matatu's impact on Kenyan society goes beyond its functional aspects. It's a symbol of resilience, innovation, and non-conformity. Its decline will have far-reaching consequences, including a reduction in road accidents and pollution.
As the matatu fades away, it's essential to acknowledge its significance in Kenyan culture and history. The matatu may be a relic of the past, but its legacy will continue to shape the country's transportation landscape.
