Kakamega-based tycoon Cleophas Shimanyula has threatened to sack more than 700 workers employed in his matatus operating along the Kisumu-Kakamega highway.
Citing the rising cost of #fuel and operations, the businessman said the current situation has made it difficult for the matatu business to remain profitable.
“We have employed many men and women who earn a decent living from this business. Now that the government has decided to increase fuel prices, we have no other option but to let these workers go. But the same government should be ready to deal with the rise in crime that may come with unemployment across the country,” he said.
Shimanyula noted that many young people depend on the matatu industry for their livelihoods, adding that the increasing cost of running the business has also pushed up salary expenses, making it difficult to sustain workers.
He also seized the opportunity to invite willing buyers to purchase his fleet of vehicles, mostly public service vehicles (PSVs) and lorries, which he has been using for transport and hire services.