19/05/2026
Nationwide Transport Strike Suspended for 7 Days as Talks with Government Begin
Nairobi โ A planned nationwide strike by Kenyaโs transport sector has been suspended for seven days to allow negotiations with the government over the recent surge in fuel prices.
Union officials announced the decision late Tuesday, saying operations would continue as normal while talks take place. The strike, which was set to begin Wednesday, would have grounded matatus, buses, and cargo trucks across the country.
โWe have decided to give dialogue a chance,โ a spokesperson for the transport operators said. โThe suspension is for seven days only. If there is no tangible outcome, the strike will resume.โ
The strike call came after fuel prices rose sharply in May, driven by global supply disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and a weaker shilling. Operators say the higher costs have made it impossible to run routes profitably without raising fares.
Transport Cabinet Secretary officials confirmed that a multi-agency team will meet union leaders this week to discuss mitigation measures, including possible fuel subsidies and fare adjustments.
If negotiations fail, Kenya could face major disruptions to commuting, school transport, and supply chains when the seven-day window expires.
The government has urged calm and asked operators to avoid burdening commuters during the talks.
