Another Matatu Sacco Pulls Buses Off Roads for Crew Training Amid NTSA’s Super Metro Ban
Metro Trans commuters in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) were left stranded on Saturday, March 22, as the transport operator suspended its services for the day. The company announced the temporary halt to facilitate a training and sensitization program for its drivers, conductors, and staff.
The decision was communicated in a statement issued on Thursday, March 20, assuring customers that operations would resume on Sunday, March 23.
“Dear Customers and Stakeholders, to continue serving you better, we have scheduled a sensitization program for our drivers, conductors, and staff on Saturday, 22nd March 2025. As a result, all our services will be suspended on this day,” the statement read. “We will resume normal operations on Sunday, 23 March 2025. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your continued support. Thank you for your understanding.”
The timing of Metro Trans’ suspension coincided with a crisis involving another major player in the sector, Super Metro, whose operating license was revoked by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) on March 20.
NTSA took action after discovering that Super Metro had multiple compliance violations. A comprehensive review found that 15 out of the company’s 523 vehicles had expired inspection certificates, while eight lacked valid Road Service Licences (RSL). Additionally, some of the company’s drivers did not meet the required qualifications, posing a significant safety threat.
Authorities ordered traffic police to impound any Super Metro vehicles defying the ban. However, despite the directive, some of the company’s minibuses were still spotted operating in different parts of Nairobi and along Thika Road.
Concerned citizens took to social media to raise alarm over the defiance. Witnesses reported seeing a Super Metro minibus filled with passengers along the Thika Super Highway, while another was spotted heading toward Mombasa Road.
Super Metro management condemned the suspension, arguing that it was unfair and would lead to significant financial losses. They accused NTSA of issuing a blanket condemnation of their Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation (SACCO).
The crisis stemmed from a tragic incident involving a Super Metro tout who allegedly pushed a passenger out of a moving bus, leading to the commuter’s immediate death. In response, Super Metro suspended the crew involved in the incident.
Despite their grievances, the company ultimately complied with NTSA’s orders, presenting over 250 of its vehicles for inspection at NTSA offices on Mombasa Road on March 22..
More News: Super Metro Buses Pulled from Roads as NTSA Begins Inspection
Another Matatu Sacco Pulls Buses Off Roads for Crew Training Amid NTSA’s Super Metro Ban
