Government Lifts Suspension of PSVs from Using Nairobi Expressway

The government has lifted the suspension of Public Service Vehicles (PSVs)/matatus from using the Nairobi Expressway, effective immediately.

The suspension was put in place in July 2022 to allow the Nairobi Expressway Company to investigate the cause of increased incidents of road carnage and develop appropriate safety measures.

A statement from the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Kipchumba Murkomen, said that the suspension has been lifted following a successful exercise by the MOJA Expressway Company in creating awareness to the matatu industry on the terms and conditions of using the expressway.

“The exercise has proved successful with PSVs taking the necessary steps to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and adhere to set rules and regulations,” Murkomen said.

He added that he believes lifting the suspension will create employment and have great economic value.

The Nairobi Expressway is a 27-kilometer toll road that connects Mlolongo to Westlands in Nairobi. It was opened to the public in May 2022.

The suspension of PSVs from using the expressway had been met with criticism from matatu operators, who said that it was unfair to them. They argued that the expressway was built for public use and that they should be allowed to use it.

The government’s decision to lift the suspension is a welcome relief for matatu operators. It is also a sign that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of motorists on the expressway.