Kenya woke up to a noticeably calmer but still paralysed Tuesday, May 19, 2026, as the nationwide matatu strike entered its second day.
In Nairobi, a spot check by K24 Digital found Thika Superhighway, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way, Jogoo Road, Ngong Road, and Outer Ring Road unusually empty.
Similar scenes were reported in other parts of the country, where matatu stages remained abandoned, and major highways stayed eerily quiet.
Commuters left stranded
While Monday’s strike was marked by chaos and destruction, Tuesday was relatively quieter, though the impact on daily life remained severe.
With matatus still off the roads, millions of Kenyans were left stranded. Thousands were forced to walk long distances to work.
In Nairobi, residents were seen trekking along highways carrying bags and laptops. Similar scenes were reported in other towns across the country.
Many employers instructed staff to work from home where possible. Several schools in Nairobi and other parts of the country closed entirely due to transport challenges.
Boda boda fares surged sharply, with some operators charging up to 2 times the normal price.
Strike marred by chaos
The strike began on Monday, May 18, 2026, following a sharp increase in fuel prices. It was marked by widespread chaos and destruction in several parts of the country.
Protesters blocked roads using stones and burning tyres, particularly in Nairobi, Mombasa, and parts of the Rift Valley.
Several vehicles were damaged, businesses were forced to close early, and clashes were reported between matatu operators, youth, and police. Tragically, the unrest also led to loss of lives in some areas.
A standoff between the government and matatu sector stakeholders remained unresolved on Monday night after hours of talks failed to break the deadlock that has paralysed public transport across the country.
Negotiations led by CS Davis Chirchir and CS Opiyo Wandayi continued into the night, but no agreement was reached despite earlier claims of progress.
Despite this, EPRA later announced a Ksh 10.06 per litre reduction in diesel prices following stalled talks.
