This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
On May 20, 2020, a roadblock on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway sparked a demonstration by over 100 matatu operators from Naivasha, who were joined by members of the public in calling for its removal.
The roadblock, mounted near Raini centre 10kms from Naivasha town, was intended to help authorities arrest those fleeing from Nairobi during the lockdown.
However, it has ended up inconveniencing hundreds of people traveling around Naivasha sub-county, particularly residents of Kinungi, Ihindu, and Fly-Over centre who have been cut off from Naivasha town.
Stephen Mungai, chairman of matatu operators in Naivasha, noted that ferrying of farm produce to and from rural centres had become nearly impossible due to the roadblock.
"We support measures by the government to stop the spread of Covid-19, but this roadblock has ended up locking us from our home and making it impossible to access Naivasha town," Mungai said.
Naivasha sub-county commissioner Mbogo Mathioya defended the roadblock, stating that it was part of measures to stop the spread of Covid-19 and that there were no plans to relocate it.
