Nairobi, chances are you rely on a matatu or bus for your daily travels. But have you ever wondered how these vehicles get their route numbers? Nairobi’s public transport system has been using a structured numbering system for decades, ensuring order and efficiency in the city’s chaotic yet vibrant transit network.
The Birth of Matatu Route Numbers in Nairobi
The system dates back to 1934 when the Kenya Bus Service (KBS) introduced formal public transport in Nairobi. To streamline movement, KBS implemented route numbers that categorized different destinations, a system that has since become an integral part of city commuting.
Over time, the numbering system expanded and evolved, reflecting changes in Nairobi’s transport demands. Today, route allocation falls under the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), which assigns numbers to registered matatu Saccos.
How Route Numbers Are Organized
Like public transport systems worldwide—whether airlines, railways, or maritime transit—Nairobi’s matatu numbering follows a structured format. Originally, routes were divided into three categories:
- Urban Routes – Connecting estates on the outskirts to the city center.
- Intra-Urban Routes – Facilitating movement between different estates within Nairobi.
- Peri-Urban Routes – Extending beyond Nairobi to connect surrounding towns.
Nairobi’s Most Popular Matatu Routes
Some of the city’s earliest and most iconic matatu routes include:
- Route 7: Jericho to Kenyatta National Hospital
- Route 8: Jerusalem to Kenyatta National Hospital
- Route 1: City Centre to Dagoretti Corner, Karen, and Dagoretti Market (now defunct)
With NTSA now regulating rather than expanding routes, some older routes have disappeared due to shifting commuter needs, road developments, or system reorganizations.
Originally, Route 125 was designated for Ongata Rongai, while Route 126 extended further to Kiserian. However, with time, some matatu operators have blurred these distinctions, leading to occasional confusion.
Despite the numbering system, most commuters focus on their destination rather than the assigned number. As long as they reach their intended stop, the route label is often secondary.
A Uniquely Kenyan Transport Culture
Beyond just a mode of transport, Nairobi’s matatu industry is deeply embedded in Kenyan culture. From their vibrant graffiti designs and loud music to their unique names and themes, matatus are more than just vehicles—they are a form of self-expression and a symbol of Nairobi’s energy.
Despite challenges such as congestion, fluctuating fares, and occasional route confusion, matatus remain the heartbeat of the city, offering affordable and efficient transport to millions of Nairobians daily.