Transport strike paralyzes Kenya amid fuel price protests

Kenya is experiencing a nationwide transport strike that has significantly disrupted public life and stranded thousands of commuters. Public transport operators have suspended their services to protest against soaring fuel prices recently increased by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Epra).

The strike has shown dramatic effects particularly in Nairobi, where large parts of the capital have been transformed into a 'walking city'. Thousands of commuters were forced to walk long distances as matatu buses and other public transport vehicles remained off the roads. Normally busy highways stayed largely empty while streams of people moved along sidewalks and major thoroughfares.

Protests have erupted in several towns, with demonstrators lighting bonfires and setting up road barricades. Areas in Kiambu County and sections of Thika Road were particularly affected, where incidents of vandalism and vehicle destruction were reported. Authorities responded by deploying heavy security forces to the affected regions.

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi expressed concern about the economic impact of the strike. He warned that the ongoing paralysis of the transport sector could put additional pressure on Kenya's already fragile economy. The disruption of supply chains and interference with daily business activities heighten concerns about economic consequences.

The strike's impact was also felt in the education sector, where some schools asked students to stay at home. The lack of available transport made it impossible for many students to reach their educational institutions.

Interesting was the reaction of boda boda riders (motorcycle taxis), who benefited from increased demand. Many of them abandoned digital ride-hailing apps and returned to conventional roadside pickups as demand for two-wheel transport surged dramatically.

The National Police Service (NPS) assured the public of their safety during the planned protests and strike. Despite the tense situation, authorities worked to maintain order and prevent further escalation.

The protests reflect growing public anger over record fuel prices that directly affect transport costs, food prices, and daily household expenses. Motorists, traders, and commuters expressed their frustration over sharp increases in petrol and diesel prices.

The strike followed Epra's upward revision of petroleum prices on Thursday, which served as the final trigger for the coordinated protest action by transport operators. The situation highlights the challenges Kenya faces in managing rising energy costs and their impact on the population.

Major public transport operators across the country suspended services in what was described as a coordinated nationwide protest. The action triggered fears of widespread commuter disruption, supply chain delays, and economic paralysis beyond the immediate transport sector.

The crisis underscores broader economic pressures facing Kenya, where rising fuel costs have cascading effects throughout the economy, affecting everything from food distribution to daily commuting patterns for millions of citizens.