Matatu Operators Appeal to Ruto for Fuel Subsidy as Rising Costs Threaten Transport Businesses

Matatu operators have urged President William Ruto to introduce a fuel subsidy to ease the growing financial pressure on public transport businesses and protect passengers from further increases in travel costs.

The Mass Mobility Operators Association says rising fuel prices and declining passenger spending are making it increasingly difficult for operators to sustain their businesses.

The association believes government intervention could provide relief to transport operators while helping ordinary Kenyans manage the rising cost of living.

Speaking during a press briefing on Saturday, October 24, 2026, MMOA Secretary General Wilfred Bosire called on the government to consider temporarily subsidising fuel to reduce operating expenses.

Bosire argued that the government could take practical measures to ease the burden facing the transport sector, noting that lower fuel prices would give operators more room to manage their businesses without immediately passing additional costs on to passengers.

The appeal follows a fuel price increase announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority on October 14, with the new prices taking effect on October 15.

The latest adjustment has intensified concerns among transport operators, who depend heavily on diesel to run public service vehicles.

Higher fuel expenses can significantly reduce daily earnings, particularly for operators already facing vehicle maintenance costs, insurance premiums and loan repayments.

The association has also warned that increasing fares may not provide a lasting solution because passengers are already reducing their spending on transport.

Further fare increases could discourage travel and leave operators carrying fewer passengers, affecting their daily income.

Beyond the matatu industry, rising transport costs could affect workers, students, traders and small businesses that depend on affordable public transport to move people and goods.

The operators are therefore asking the government to consider targeted relief measures that could stabilise the sector and prevent additional pressure on households.

Whether the government will introduce a new fuel subsidy remains uncertain, however, the operators’ appeal places renewed attention on the need to balance fuel pricing, business sustainability and the cost of living as Kenyans continue to grapple with rising expenses.

Sources; https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1F362stnYW/

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