The ‘matatu’ culture in Kenya is quite unique and the pizazz that comes with it is renowned worldwide. The hottest matatus being named
Kenyan matatus are glitzy with booming music, are adorned with ostentatious graffiti and are basically moving art pieces.
But it hasn’t always been like this. As recently as a decade ago matatu art was banned in order to promote safety and keep the windshields graffiti-free to avoid interfering with the drivers’ vision.
Luckily, president Uhuru lifted the ban in 2015 saying that the artwork in matatus supported our youth and it was an expression of creativity. “I personally do not see anything wrong with the art-work and creativity in matatus and we should surely support our youth to do business with their talents, as long as it does not interfere with driver’s vision and other regulations.” Said Uhuru during the launch of the PSV cashless 1963 cards.
Following the lifting of the ban, matatus flourished with creative designs with each of the matatus trying to outshine each other with flamboyant designs. There is even a mat in Kitengela called Samurai Sword, with 2 real Samurai Swords hanging at the front that cost 240,000 Kenya Shillings.
Today we sampled some of the most outstanding matatus in Nairobi. Check them out:
1. Solaina- Dagoretti Route 2.
2. Soul Plane- Route 100 Kiambu
3.Giovanni - Rongai Route 125
4 .Legalized - Route 125 Rongai
5. Sultan/Big Spender- Eastleigh
6. Godfather- Pipeline Route 33.
7. KIXX - Ngong Route 111
8. Mixtape - Rongai 125
9. Hot Dollar - Umoja Route 35-60
10. Backstage - Pipeline Route 33