Minibus drivers’ strike brings Kenya to a standstill

Minibus drivers across Kenya staged a three-day strike last week in protest over harassment and extortion, which they allege traffic police officials are carrying out.

The minibus or “matatu” operators, represented by the Matatu Drivers and Conductors Welfare Association (MDCWA), walked out on strike on 4 January this year over traffic police intimidation, causing widespread disruption. The operators also raised concerns about stringent revenue targets set by minibus owners. These they say force operators to work extra hours and drive at excessive speeds to make up time.

Following government assurances that the workers’ grievances would be looked into, the strike was called off. However, the MDCWA has pledged to carry out further strike action on 7 April if the ministry of transport and the traffic police department fail to meet with the operators to discuss their concerns.

ITF Africa regional secretary Joseph Katende commented: “It is important that matatu workers have a strong voice so that they can engage in social dialogue that can lead to a meaningful and peaceful settlement of disputes. However, the workers could be better served by joining a trade union, which would ensure that they have that voice. The ITF regional office would be pleased to support this move as matatu drivers still remain outside the union fold.”