Matatu

In Kenya and neighboring nations matatu are privately owned minibuses although pick-up trucks were in the past pressed into service as these East African share taxis.^[1] Often decorated, many matatu feature portraits of the famous or slogans and sayings, some religious.^[2]

These minibuses ply set routes, run from termini, and are used for both inter and intra-city travel.^[3] In addition to a driver, matatu may be staffed by a conductor.^[4]

As of 1999 they were the only form of public transport available in Nairobi, Kenya, although in 2006 and 2008 this was no longer the case.^[5] Kampala, Uganda, may only be serviced by minibuses as of 2008.^{[AICD 1]}

Name

The name is a Swahili colloquialism.^[6]

Kenyan regulation

In Kenya this industry is regulated, and these minibuses must be fitted with seatbelts and speed governors.^[7] The Kenyan regime has been described as having extensive regulatory controls, and in this country a matatu worker can be pulled from the streets simply for sporting too loud a shirt.^[8]

Present regulation may not be sufficient deterrent to prevent small infractions, as even decoration may be prohibited.^[9]

As of December 2010, Kenyan Government policy is to phase out minibus matatu in favor of larger, 25+ seat buses. It could take ten years to clear the minibus from Nairobi streets, however.^[10]

Ugandan regulations

As of 2008, Kampala, Uganda, has no independent transport authority.^{[AICD 2]}

References

See also

• Dala dala
• Tro tro