Thousands of Kenyans have had to cancel or postpone plans to travel to their home villages after getting stranded in Nairobi, struggling to secure transport for the festive season. Nairobi’s main bus termini have been bustling from early morning, with long queues of passengers desperate to get to various parts of the country for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Many travellers reported waiting for hours as public service vehicles (PSVs) struggled to cope with the surge in demand. Some were forced to abandon their journeys entirely or reschedule for later dates, frustrated by the limited availability of buses and matatus.
The rush has also triggered a sharp rise in fares on several routes, with some ticket prices nearly doubling compared to normal rates. Passengers travelling to far-flung destinations in western Kenya, the Rift Valley, and parts of eastern Kenya felt the pinch the most, facing both logistical and financial hurdles as they tried to reunite with family.
Despite the setbacks, a festive spirit lingered at the crowded stations, with travellers remaining determined to make their way home. Operators blamed the disruptions on the seasonal rush, citing high operational costs and limited fleet capacity as they scrambled to meet one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The chaotic scenes highlight the perennial challenges faced by travellers in Nairobi during peak seasons, raising questions about the need for better planning and increased transport options to ease the strain on residents seeking to celebrate the holidays in their hometowns. Photos/Courtesy
