13 Nairobi Matatu SACCOs Threaten Strike Over EPRA Petrol Station Ban
Nairobi matatu SACCOs strike petrol station ban: Thirteen Nairobi matatu SACCOs have threatened to strike after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) and Nairobi County moved to ban public service vehicles (PSVs) from picking up or dropping off passengers at petrol stations in the Central Business District.
SACCOs Challenge EPRA Directive in Court
On November 17, 2025, the SACCOs filed an urgent petition at the High Court seeking conservatory orders to halt enforcement of the directive. They argue the ban is arbitrary, punitive, and lacks justification—especially since no safety incidents have been reported at fuel stations involving matatus.
“The directive will cripple operations and hurt thousands who depend on this industry,” said a SACCO director outside court. “We transport the sick, the elderly—how can they walk to distant terminals?”
Push to Relocate to Greenpark Terminus Sparks Dispute
The ban is part of Nairobi County’s plan to shift all matatu activity to the newly upgraded Greenpark Terminus near Haile Selassie Roundabout. While the facility includes an underpass and modern amenities, operators say it’s too far from the CBD, making it impractical for daily commuters.
SACCO lawyers Danstan Omari and Stanley Kinyanjui questioned why matatus are being singled out when similar pick-up practices occur nationwide without restriction. They urged the court to fast-track the case, warning that delays could render the petition useless.
Risk of Citywide Transport Disruption
With over 13 major SACCOs involved—representing hundreds of vehicles—the threatened strike could paralyze Nairobi’s public transport if the ban takes effect. The SACCOs insist they’ve contributed significantly to national mobility and deserve inclusive dialogue, not unilateral orders.
