The Nairobi’s Matatu industry is not only a vibrant culture in Kenya but also a powerful economic engine where a single vehicle can generate significant returns for investors.
While some operators consider the investment to be lucrative, profitability is impacted by various factors, including capacity, route, competition, and operating costs.
According to sources, 14-seaters earn investors up to Sh3,500 profit per day, while 33 seater vehicles can net up to Sh15,000 daily.
President Ruto’s son, George Ruto, is one of the investors making in the local public transportation industry. George has invested in luxury matatus locally known as Nganya, with his latest addition named ‘Mood’.
According to his driver Lenny who drives the Mood Matatu, the 25-seater makes about Sh20,000 profit on a normal day and up to Sh80,000 when hired.
“There are times when the vehicle makes Sh80,000 daily. It can be hired to go to Nakuru and other places. They pay me Sh100,000. I give the owner Sh80,000, and the rest is for the crew,” Lenny explained in an interview with Ghetto Radio.
He added that sometimes the matatu can be hired for up to four days to go to distant cities like Mombasa or Eldoret.
“It is hard to find the vehicle in Nairobi on weekends, and that translates into good money,” he said.
Mood, a Sh14 million ride boasts custom bucket seats fitted with cup holders and USB charging ports, full air conditioning, a push-to-start ignition system, solar power integration, and a professional DJ console mounted in the front.
The vehicle is the first matatu in Kenya to feature bucket seats in a 25-seater capacity layout, which reduces the typical 32-seater configuration for added luxury and space.
The matatu’s distinctive design and tech features were reportedly approved by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
Mood is the latest addition to George Ruto’s growing fleet, which includes Manifest another premium matatu known for its entertainment-themed design.
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