Kenya’s matatu industry is warning of a looming financial crisis after losing 40 percent of its revenue in Nairobi during Tuesday’s protests, with operators now calling for urgent dialogue to prevent mass job losses, vehicle repossessions, and a complete breakdown of public transport in major towns.

The Matatu Owners Association said the demonstrations, which paralysed movement and saw businesses vandalised, cost the Nairobi segment of the industry an estimated Sh150 million in just one day.

The city has about 25,000 matatus on the road daily, each earning roughly Sh15,000—mostly from 33-seaters and larger vehicles. This puts Nairobi’s daily matatu revenue at Sh375 million and Sh11.2 billion monthly.

“Some of us we pay loans and did not meet our obligations on Tuesday. We urge the government to bring all stakeholders together including churches, business community and even leaders for national reconciliation to save our country from anarchy,” MOA president Albert Karakacha said.

Karakacha added that the protests, which were also held in Mombasa and Kilifi, left many operators grounded, unable to operate due to blocked roads, tear gas, and security fears. He also condemned the violence and destruction of property during the protests. “We condemn the goons who were hired to destroy businesses in town,” he said.

The association says many operators rely on daily income to service loans on their vehicles and pay workers. With consistent disruptions, the risk of default is growing, and auctioneers are likely to take over the assets of small-scale investors who are unable to meet their financial obligations.

The matatu sector is one of the biggest employers in Kenya, supporting more than two million people directly and indirectly. These include drivers, conductors, mechanics, fuel station workers, car wash attendants, and suppliers of spare parts and services related to the operation and maintenance of matatus.

Nationwide, about 60,000 matatus and buses are on the road on a normal day, generating approximately Sh900 million daily. This translates to Sh27 billion monthly and more than Sh300 billion annually—making the industry a vital contributor to the national economy.

A recent report by consulting firm Deloitte found that 70 percent of Nairobi residents depend on the matatu industry for transport. The lack of a reliable, government-run public transport system has left millions relying on privately operated matatus for mobility and access to work, school, and markets.

The industry now says the government must urgently address the rising insecurity and political unrest, as continued protests could cripple transport, disrupt daily life, and spark economic losses across various sectors.

The demonstrations were triggered by public outrage over the death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwang’, who died in police custody on June 8 after being arrested from his home in Homa Bay the previous day.

Tensions escalated further on Tuesday when a police officer shot and killed a street vendor in broad daylight in Nairobi’s Central Business District during the protests, sparking fresh concerns over police brutality.