URBAN TRANSPORT
URBAN TRANSPORT
The‘ Mathree’ Culture why Matatus aren’ t matatus anymore
They make for more than 70 percent of the transport sector in the country. Any time they go on industrial action for one reason or another the country’ s economy is literally brought to a stand still.
I am talking about the vibrant matatu industry. Through the years times have changed days when matatus were judged by how loud they were or how cool their graffi ti looks are long gone.
Today matatus aren’ t just matatus anymore. Many have been transformed to cool and luxurious mode of transport by adding features that most people didn’ t think would be possible.
Charging areas
Nothing is more disappointing than your phone battery dying on you when you have a very important call to make or missing out on some hot gossip on your WhatsApp groups.
But today if you know your phone is a power gazzler all you need is to carry your charger and you’ ll be able to power back your phone in most matatus. The charging ports are even more convenient for laptops users who can turn their matatu seat into mini offi ce. You can do your work well also utilizing the free wi-fi.
Free Wi-fi
When the Nissan matatu from Rongai fi rst introduced free Wi-Fi many thought it was a joke or that it wasn’ t going to last. But now this is the in thing.
According to one matatu operator George Kamau of Mwiki PSV Sacco, matatus that provide free Wi-Fi attract more passengers than those without.
“ Matatus with WiFi are more popular especially with the youths. A lot of people prefer them because they they don’ t get bored in traffi c,” Kamau says.
Free beverages
This was such a shocker. Many people didn’ tbelieve it while others questioned it’ s sustainability. Months on‘ Punisher’ continues to offer this exclusive service.
40 LIFE TODAY MAGAZINE Issue 2, No. 003 / 17 / March 2017