On the night of May 11, 2025, a devastating accident involving a popular Nairobi matatu, known as “Uppercut,” occurred in Tetu, Nyeri County. The vehicle, reportedly on a private trip to Nyeri, overturned in the Jua Kali area, resulting in one fatality and over 20 injuries. This incident has raised significant concerns about the safety standards and operational practices within Kenya’s public transport sector.
According to police reports, the matatu overturned in the Jua Kali area, leading to the fatality and multiple injuries. The injured passengers were promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact cause and hold accountable those responsible.
A video shared online hours before the crash appeared to show the matatu being driven recklessly along Thika Superhighway. Police have since detained the vehicle at a local police station for inspection and are reviewing reports from concerned members of the public who claimed to have raised alarms about the matatu’s driving behavior before the incident.
The incident has sparked public outrage, with many Kenyans questioning the recklessness and inhumanity exhibited by the matatu crew. Commuters have expressed concerns about increasing cases of mistreatment by matatu crews, calling for strict regulation and accountability within the public transport sector.
In response, Super Metro, the company operating the Uppercut matatu, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and regret over the incident. The company extended heartfelt condolences to the victim’s family and acknowledged the public’s anger, affirming that no one should lose their life in such a senseless manner.
Super Metro emphasized that human life is a core value guiding their operations and assured the public of their commitment to safety. While investigations are ongoing, the company has taken swift action by suspending the crew involved in the incident and pledging full cooperation with authorities to ensure justice is served.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and accountability within Kenya’s public transportation system. Fatal accidents have been on the rise, with at least 12 people killed in a road accident involving a Nissan matatu and a lorry at Arimi along Njoro-Elburgon Road, Nakuru County, just days before the Uppercut incident.
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The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) attributes the leading causes of fatal crashes to hit-and-run incidents, tyre bursts, and vehicles losing control. Additionally, improper overtaking and failure to maintain the proper lane, resulting in head-on collisions, are significant contributors to these accidents.
In light of these recurring tragedies, it is imperative for both public and private stakeholders to collaborate in implementing comprehensive road safety measures. This includes:
- Strict enforcement of traffic laws to deter reckless driving behaviors.
- Regular inspection and maintenance of public service vehicles to ensure they meet safety standards.
- Enhanced training programs for drivers and conductors to promote responsible conduct and passenger safety.
- Public awareness campaigns to educate commuters on their rights and the importance of adhering to safety protocols.
Only through concerted efforts can Kenya hope to mitigate the risks associated with public transportation and prevent further loss of life on its roads.
