Kenya's public transport industry is mourning the death of Paul Mburu Kinyanjui Muthumbi (Mbukinya), the visionary founder of Mbukinya Bus Services, who passed away on July 20, 2026, bringing to a close a remarkable chapter in the country's long-distance transport history.

Tributes have continued to pour in from leaders, industry stakeholders and Kenyans who relied on the iconic bus company over the past four decades. Among those paying tribute is Matatu Owners Association (MOA) President Albert M. Karakacha, who described the late businessman as a pioneer whose contribution transformed Kenya's PSV sector.

In a condolence message issued on behalf of the Matatu Owners Association, the entire PSV fraternity and in his personal capacity, Karakacha conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, colleagues and the thousands of Kenyans whose lives were touched by Mbukinya's legacy.

"It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that I have received the news of the passing of Mr. Paul Mburu Kinyanjui Muthumbi (Mbukinya)," Karakacha said.

He hailed the late transport entrepreneur as one of the founding pillars of Kenya's long-distance public transport industry, noting that the establishment of Mbukinya Bus Services in 1983 marked the beginning of a transport revolution that connected Nairobi with Western Kenya and the Nyanza region.

According to Karakacha, Mbukinya was more than just a transport company. He said the firm became a lifeline for millions of Kenyans by offering safe, reliable and affordable travel at a time when many families could not afford expensive transport services.

"For more than four decades, Mbukinya became a household name. Generations of Kenyans fondly remember the company's affordable fares, which made travel possible even for those with modest means," he noted.

He further praised the company's commitment to passenger safety, saying Mbukinya earned national respect as one of Kenya's most dependable PSV operators through its professionalism and strong safety record.

Beyond his achievements in business, Karakacha remembered Paul Mburu as a respected community leader, a devoted Church Elder, a dedicated family man and a humble servant who inspired many through his integrity, compassion and commitment to serving others.

"The passing of Paul Mburu marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to travel on every road where the Mbukinya name remains a symbol of resilience, affordability and dependable service," he said.

The MOA President added that while the transport fraternity is grieving the loss of one of its most influential pioneers, it is also celebrating a life that transformed Kenya's public transport landscape and positively impacted millions of travellers across the country.

As mourners continue to pay tribute, many Kenyans have taken to social media to share memories of travelling aboard Mbukinya buses, recalling the company's affordable fares, dependable schedules and the role it played in connecting families, students, traders and workers across different regions of the country.

Paul Mburu's death leaves behind an enduring legacy in the transport industry, with Mbukinya Bus Services remaining one of Kenya's oldest and most recognizable PSV brands.

Karakacha concluded by praying for God's comfort upon the bereaved family and asking the Almighty to grant the late transport icon eternal rest.

"May the Almighty God grant comfort and strength to his family during this difficult time, and may He reward Paul Mburu Kinyanjui Muthumbi for a life well lived in service to humanity. May his soul rest in eternal peace," he said.