This archive report was first published on 18 November 2019.
Published on November 18, 2019, by MERCY MWENDE
Decades ago, matatus with a unique design were the face of rural transport in Kenya. Nicknamed 'face me', these matatus had passengers sit in two rows facing each other.
One such matatu, now a relic of the past, has been in operation for 26 years in Nyeri. The blue vehicle, although no longer a public service vehicle (PSV), still carries luggage on the Nyeri-Kirurumi-Kinunga route.
Meet Mr Karuga Kiraguri, the owner of the vehicle, who has been in the industry since 1993. He started off as a conductor of his own vehicle and later learned how to drive in 1994.
With a passion for his work, Kiraguri has kept his matatu operational despite the challenges. He believes that with proper servicing and care, a vehicle can last long.
However, the 'Michuki rules' introduced in 2003, which required every PSV to have speed governors, seat belts, and a yellow line, marked the beginning of the end for his career as a PSV. Despite spending Sh18,000 to meet the required standards, his vehicle was never certified.
Undeterred, Kiraguri decided to change his vehicle from a passenger vehicle to a cargo vehicle. Today, he prides himself in his matatu, which has enabled him to educate his six children.
