MP Kathambi calls for concerted effort to save Matatu industry from collapsing

Njoro MP Charity Kathambi has decried the continued deteriorating Matatu sector business.

Addressing media in Nakuru town on Tuesday, Kathambi noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has had negative impact on the industry which is a source of livelihood for many youth.

While revealing that he has had complaints from the stakeholders in the Matatu industry including Njoro based Saccos,the MP has called for concerted effort in addressing the Matatu issue.

The first time Jubilee MP says the removal of matatus from the Nakuru CBD has affected the transport sector.

The Legislator said even thought the process of Nakuru becoming a city is welcomed,it should not affect business sectors such as Matatu industry.

According to her,the relocation of matatus from CBD was inorder but there was need to ensure a better environment in the new stages they were relocated.

“We support Nakuru becoming a city,but it should not impact negatively on the businesses such as the Matatu sector” said Kathambi.

She called on all leaders in Nakuru to come together and come up with a solution to save the Matatu industry from collapsing.

The MP has proposed that the county government allows 30 percent of the matatus back to CBD.

Kathambi noted that the sector has been in compliance with the set COVID-19 protocols and with clear mechanisms they can be allowed back to CBD for the sake of businesses.

“I want to request leaders in Nakuru county that we come together and address this issue even if it means allowing 30 percent of matatus back to CBD” she said.

It will be recalled that in April this year the county government of Nakuru reallocated matatus from CBD in a move to decongest town following COVID-19 pandemic.

The move saw Governor Lee Kinyanjui faulted for not considering the welfare of the operators.

The operators since then have been in conflict with the county government of Nakuru.

Their several attempts to return to CBD including holding demonstrations have been faced with retaliation from county enforcement officers as well as police.