The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has acted decisively against two public service vehicles (PSVs) branded “Moneyfest” after a viral video exposed their reckless driving along the Nairobi-Ongata Rongai route. The video, which circulated widely on January 7, 2025, depicted alarming traffic violations, including one matatu being driven at high speed while passengers dangerously rode on its rooftop.
One of the incidents showed the vehicle bypassing traffic and narrowly avoiding a collision with an oncoming lorry. Despite the apparent danger, the driver continued undeterred, hooting aggressively and intimidating other motorists caught in traffic. In another clip, a similarly branded matatu, allegedly overloaded, came perilously close to colliding with a Mercedes Benz while overlapping on Magadi Road.
Public outcry over the matatus’ dangerous behavior led NTSA to confirm their impoundment on January 9. “We thank you for bringing this to our attention. The two PSVs are at the Police Station for processing and further action,” NTSA stated, responding to a concerned journalist, Saddique Shaban, who had highlighted the issue on social media.
The vehicles have been linked to George Ruto, son of President William Ruto, reigniting public concerns about perceived impunity in enforcing traffic regulations. Critics allege that the vehicles’ owners and drivers are protected by their connections, with one Rongai resident commenting, “These vehicles are untouchable. The drivers have more influence than traffic officers.”
The “Moneyfest” matatus have been a recurring source of complaints since their introduction in August 2024, accused of skipping stage lines, operating without Sacco names, and dropping passengers indiscriminately. NTSA has vowed to take stringent measures, citing prior cases where rogue drivers faced heavy fines and license suspensions.
