The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has impounded two matatus operating under the ‘Moneyfest’ brand following viral videos showing dangerous traffic violations. The vehicles, reportedly linked to George Ruto, son of President William Ruto, were captured on video Wednesday, January 7, operating along the Nairobi-Rongai route.
The footage showed passengers riding on top of the vehicles, while another clip captured one of the matatus narrowly avoiding a collision with a Mercedes Benz during an illegal overtaking maneuver on a busy Nairobi road. NTSA responded to public complaints online:
“We thank you for bringing this to our attention. The two PSVs are at the Police Station for processing and further action.”
Update: We thank you for bringing this to our attention. The two PSVs are at the Police Station for processing and further action.#usalamabarabarani #NTSA #watotowafikesalama https://t.co/52PuyEmZl2 pic.twitter.com/8GCXEC7ja5
— NTSA KENYA (@ntsa_kenya) January 9, 2025
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Why “Moneyfest” Matatus Gained Negative Popularity
The ‘Moneyfest’ matatu first gained notoriety in August 2024 when its ownership was traced to a high-ranking government official’s family member. Local residents have repeatedly expressed concerns about the vehicles’ operations, citing multiple violations including unauthorized passenger pickup points and absence of required Sacco identification.
“These vehicles are untouchable. The drivers have more influence than traffic officers,” one resident said in August.
The enforcement action comes amid NTSA’s border crackdown on traffic violations.
