Public transportation providers have implemented an immediate 50 per cent fare increase and declared a nationwide strike starting Monday, threatening to block roads nationwide until the government addresses the effects of escalating fuel prices on their business activities
The declaration was issued on Friday, May 15, 2026, by Albert Karakacha, President of the Matatu Owners Association, representing matatu owners, tour vehicle operators, and boda boda groups
“Beginning Monday, there will be absolutely no vehicle movement. All roads will remain blocked until the government addresses our concerns, as we have been promised solutions repeatedly but none have materialized,” stated Karakacha
He verified that the fare adjustment is effective immediately, with no exemptions for transportation network services
“To all transportation network companies operating anywhere, be informed that we will raise our rates by 50 percent due to our lack of alternative solutions. I advise you not to obstruct any drivers. If you wish to avoid complications, ensure your cooperation,” he warned
Karakacha also launched pointed criticism against the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, accusing it of failing to safeguard consumers and transport operators from increasing fuel costs and instead functioning as an instrument for cartels
“EPRA was established with the expectation that it would oversee these industries for public benefit. Now it has evolved into the primary platform for cartels to excessively tax Kenyan citizens,” he remarked
The strike declaration follows a day after EPRA raised the cost of Super Petrol by Ksh16.65 per litre and Diesel by Ksh46.29 per litre in its most recent monthly fuel pricing review. Super Petrol in Nairobi now costs Ksh214.25 per litre, while Diesel has increased to Ksh242.92