Matatu drivers in Molo grapple with fuel price surge

Molo,

Wednesday October 18, 2023

KNA by Emily Kadzo /Lauryn Njambi 

Matatu drivers in Molo are facing a daunting battle as they navigate the repercussions of the recent surge in fuel prices. 

With fuel costs soaring to unprecedented levels, these essential service providers are grappling with a host of challenges that threaten their livelihoods.

In this month's review by Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), Super Petrol has increased by Sh. 5.72 litre, Diesel by Sh. 4.48 litre and Kerosene by Sh. 2.45 litre. This means a litre of super petrol is retailing at Sh217.36, diesel at Sh. 205.47 while kerosene is at Sh. 205.06.

The recent hike in fuel prices, largely attributed to global economic factors, has contributed to the upsurge of the cost of living in Kenya. Matatu drivers who derive their livelihood from local transport have borne the strain. 

This has brought about reduction in the number of passengers traveling from various towns affecting the matatu sector.

 Many matatu drivers now find it increasingly difficult to make ends meet as they are forced to allocate a more substantial portion of their earnings to fuel. This, in turn, threatens their ability to meet other operational costs, such as vehicle maintenance and employee salaries.

"I have been in this business for over a decade, and I have never seen fuel prices go this high. It is a constant struggle just to keep the matatu running and put food on the table for my family," lamented John Kamau, a matatu driver.

"The number of passengers traveling has really reduced because of the high fare," he said.

Another driver who spoke to KNA said," the matatu fare from Molo to Nakuru was Sh. 150 but due to the hike in fuel prices it has increased to Sh. 200. Now passengers are not willing to pay the recent increased fare but pay the previous one, making it difficult for us."

These rising costs are also impacting passengers who rely on matatus for their daily travels.

 While they may desire to keep fares affordable for their loyal customers, they find their hands tied in the wake of the current financial predicament.

Courtesy; KNA