MOA President Karakacha Welcomes Road Safety Reforms, Calls for Stakeholder Inclusion

By John Kariuki

The President of the Matatu Owners Association (MOA), Albert Muhavani Karakacha, has welcomed the government’s recent road safety measures aimed at restoring order in the public transport sector, but raised concerns over the lack of consultation with key industry players.

Speaking on the reforms, Karakacha said that while the initiatives introduced by the government are timely and necessary, matatu operators, owners, and other stakeholders were not adequately involved in the decision-making process.

He noted that inclusion and proper engagement with the industry are essential to ensure that the measures achieve their intended goals.

Karakacha also questioned the management of the KSh 42 billion allocated for enforcement and reforms in the sector. He asked how the funds would be handled and what mechanisms the government has put in place to guarantee accountability and transparency in their use.

“Without clear structures to guide implementation, even well-intentioned reforms risk inefficiency or mismanagement,” he said.

The MOA president emphasized the need for well-defined coordination systems between government agencies, transport SACCOs, matatu operators, and other stakeholders involved in the public transport sector.

According to Karakacha, the matatu industry remains a critical pillar of the transport system in Kenya, providing daily mobility to millions of commuters in both urban and rural areas.

Because of this vital role, he stressed that maintaining discipline, safety, and professionalism within the sector should remain a priority for both regulators and operators.

Karakacha further noted that strengthened enforcement should not only focus on compliance but also on protecting lives and restoring public confidence in public transport.

He urged drivers, conductors, and operators to strictly adhere to traffic regulations, maintain their vehicles properly, and practice responsible driving in order to reduce accidents on the roads.

The MOA president also called on all road users — including motorists, boda boda riders, cyclists, and pedestrians — to prioritize safety, noting that reducing road accidents requires collective responsibility.

Karakacha emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between transport stakeholders, government agencies, and enforcement bodies. He said sustained dialogue and partnerships would help strengthen discipline in the sector, improve operational standards, and ensure the reforms are effectively implemented.

He reiterated that the Matatu Owners Association remains committed to supporting reforms that promote self-regulation, enhance driver training, and improve industry standards.

At the same time, he urged the government to establish clear monitoring and coordination structures to ensure that resources allocated to the sector are used effectively.

Karakacha concluded by affirming that the association is ready to work closely with the government and other partners to make Kenya’s public transport system safer, more reliable, and more efficient for the millions of commuters who depend on it every day.