Super Metro suspends operations ahead of planned nationwide matatu strike
By Francis Muli, May 18, 2026Public transport operator Super Metro has announced a temporary suspension of its services ahead of the nationwide matatu strike scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.
This comes as pressure mounts across Kenya’s transport sector following sharp fuel price increases.
In a brief public notice issued on Sunday, May 17, 2026, the company said it would halt operations in view of the planned industrial action.
“In view of the MATATU STRIKE slated for tomorrow, we will not be in operation. We shall communicate when services will resume. Thank you,” the notice stated.
The announcement comes amid growing unrest among transport operators after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raised fuel prices for the May-June pricing cycle. Petrol prices increased by Ksh16.65 per litre while diesel jumped by Ksh46.29 per litre, pushing pump prices in Nairobi to Ksh214.25 for petrol and Ksh242.92 for diesel.
The latest review marked the second major fuel hike in two months, with the increases largely linked to global crude oil market disruptions triggered by conflict in the Middle East. Reuters reported that Kenya has experienced consecutive fuel price surges amid squeezed global supplies and rising energy costs associated with tensions involving Iran.
Transport stakeholders under the umbrella of the Transport Alliance have since announced a nationwide strike beginning Monday, May 18, accusing the government and EPRA of imposing unsustainable fuel costs on operators and commuters alike.
The strike is expected to involve matatu operators, boda boda riders, digital taxi drivers, cargo transporters and private motorists. Some PSV operators have already announced a 50 per cent fare increase, arguing that operational costs have become unbearable following the diesel price surge.
Super Metro’s decision to suspend operations is likely to affect thousands of commuters in Nairobi and surrounding towns, where the SACCO has become one of the dominant PSV operators on routes including Thika Road, Kikuyu, Limuru and Ngong.
The looming strike has sparked anxiety among commuters, with concerns emerging over possible transport disruptions, fare hikes and reduced mobility for workers and businesses at the start of the week.
Online discussions among Kenyans have also reflected growing frustration over the rising cost of fuel and transport, with many expressing fears that higher pump prices will further push up the cost of living.