Is the new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System the Solution to Nairobi’s Heavy Traffic Jam?

For over 5 decades matatu operators have had control over the public transport system, but they are in for a rough time and strong competition following the expression by the Government to enter this lucrative industry. This started with the introduction of the National Youth Service (NYS) vehicles, which was considered an act of helping commuters ride around the town with ease. However, it is now clear that the government has worked out plans to have a fully fledged Government bus service dabbed Bus Rapid Transport. (BRT)

The BRT project was seen off with the demarcation of a lane on Thika Superhighway that will be used exclusively by the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) buses. 

Nairobi’s new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system will have five interconnected lines and will be named after Kenya’s Big Five animals; Ndovu (Elephant), Simba (Lion),

Chui (Leopard), Kifaru (Rhino) and Nyati (Buffalo).

The lines are geared to ease traffic in Nairobi and will be used to ferry commuters to all key city suburbs.

• Ndovu line will serve commuters traveling from Kangemi to Imara Daima.
• Simba Line will reign commuters from the Bomas Interchange near the Bomas of Kenya to Ruiru town, passing through the city.
• Chui Line commuters will ride one swift bus from Njiru area in Embakasi to Jamhuri Showground.
• Kifaru Line will ferry commuters from Eastlands. The line will run from Mama Lucy Hospital to T-Mall via the Central Business District.
• Nyati Line, the shortest of the five lines, will connect Balozi Estate near GSU headquarters to Imara Daima using Outering Road.

It is expected that the new system will offer relief to Nairobi residents, who for years have endured heavy traffic jams. While at it, Kenyans are praying hard that this does not turn out to be those projects that are geared towards personal benefits.