The Matatu Owners Association (MOA) has intensified its campaign for a nationwide shift to electric vehicles (EVs) in the public transport sector.
Officials of the association have urged Matatu Saccos to embrace clean mobility as they called the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to provide guidelines on use of the EVs in the public service transport.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ forum in Murang’a, MOA President Albert Karagacha stressed that the transition to e-mobility must be driven by the matatu industry itself, with government agencies playing a supportive rather than controlling role.
He emphasized that Saccos are capable of enforcing discipline and standards among their members if given the mandate, noting that NTSA should focus on setting clear regulations to guide the shift.
“We want Saccos to be left to do self-regulation, while NTSA should just give the guidelines,” said Karagacha.
“Our aim is to reduce road carnage, cut fuel costs, and create new jobs, as we adopt clean mobility. We also urge the government to take the initiative of training drivers on how OMA services operate all over the country,” he said.
At the same time, Karagacha noted that the introduction of electric vehicles will not only slash operational costs by 40 percent for matatu operators but also ease the burden of rising fuel prices.
According to the MOA president, the sector stands to save billions annually once fossil fuel consumption is reduced, while the adoption of EVs will open new avenues for employment ranging from charging station attendants to technicians and battery specialists.
On his part, George Muriithi, Chairman of OMA Services, highlighted the cost-saving benefits of electric vehicles, but warned that charging infrastructure remains a pressing challenge.
“The electric vehicles are cost saving, but we urge Kenya Power Company to deploy more charging stations across the country. This will save time for operators and ensure reliable power supply,” observed Muriithi.
Additionally, the strategically placed charging hubs along busy routes such as Nairobi–Thika–Murang’a would accelerate adoption, giving confidence to Sacco management and drivers.
“If we have the right infrastructure, there will be no turning back. Every Sacco will want to join this journey,” he added.
Meanwhile, Daniel Morara, a matatu driver with OMA Services, expressed enthusiasm for the new technological shift.
“Comparing with conventional diesel matatus, the electric cars are fast and very environmentally friendly,” he said.
Morara explained that operating the vehicles is easier because they require less maintenance and drivers no longer have to deal with constant mechanical breakdowns.
He also pointed out that passengers have already started noticing the difference, with many describing the rides as smooth, quiet and more comfortable than conventional diesel matatus.
If embraced widely, MOA leaders believe the rollout of electric matatus will reshape Kenya’s public transport, creating a cleaner, safer, and more affordable mobility system for millions of commuters.
– By Bernard Munyao, KNA
