The Government has finally lifted the suspension of Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) from using the Nairobi Expressway, effective immediately, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced on Thursday.
This decision comes after a series of successful engagements between the MOJA Expressway Company, the operator of the Nairobi Expressway, and key stakeholders in the Matatu industry, focusing on raising awareness of proper road usage, safety measures, and the terms and conditions for PSVs to access the expressway.
"I wish to announce that the Government has lifted the suspension of PSVs from using Nairobi Expressway effective Immediately," the statement read.
The efforts to educate and sensitize the Matatu Sacco have yielded positive outcomes, with PSV operators taking the necessary steps to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and comply with the established rules and regulations.
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According to the CS, the exercise has proven successful in instilling a culture of responsibility and adherence to road safety practices among PSV drivers and operators.
Murkomen expressed his belief that lifting the suspension will directly and positively impact the country's economy, generate more employment opportunities, and enhance mobility across the city.
"I believe that this will have a direct and positive impact on the country economy, create more jobs, and ensure effective mobility across the city. This decision is in line with the Government’s focus on making Kenya a global leader in the provision of transport and logistics a key driver of sustainable economic development," Murkomen said.
This decision aligns with the government's commitment to positioning Kenya as a global leader in the transport and logistics sector, a crucial driver of sustainable economic development.
He said that over the past months, the traffic volume on the Nairobi Expressway has shown a gradual increase, indicating the satisfaction of motorists with the services offered.
Notably, on 6th February 2023, the MOJA Expressway Company recorded an impressive 10,000,000 trips on the toll road, highlighting the confidence and trust motorists have in the expressway's efficiency and convenience.
The Nairobi Expressway has been operational for the past year, providing seamless transportation for motorists from Mlolongo to Westlands.
However, a few weeks after its public trial, isolated safety incidents and road carnage occurred, leading to the temporary suspension of PSVs from using the Nairobi Expressway on Wednesday, 6th July 2022.
Moving forward, the government will collaborate closely with the MOJA Expressway Company to monitor the usage of the Nairobi Expressway.
The aim is to ensure that all motorists strictly adhere to the provisions of the Traffic Act, thus ensuring their safety, the safety of passengers, and the well-being of those working at the Expressway.
With the suspension lifted, PSVs can now resume their usage of the Nairobi Expressway, providing commuters with an efficient and reliable transportation option.
The government's commitment to transport and logistics development marks a significant milestone in the journey towards establishing a robust and sustainable transportation network in Kenya.