Super Metro was once Nairobi’s most loved matatu Sacco, praised for its reliability, disciplined crew, and transparent fares. It set the gold standard for public transport in the city.
However, over the years, complaints have risen, and recent events have led to its decline. So, what went wrong? Let’s take a deep dive into how poor service ruined a once-great Sacco.
The Birth of Super Metro
Super Metro was co-founded by Nelson Mwangi and other directors in 2013 as a matatu Sacco in Nairobi. Unlike many matatu operators, They aimed to provide a disciplined and comfortable commuting experience.
From the start, it gained popularity due to:
- A respectful, disciplined crew.
- Fixed and transparent fares.
- Clean and comfortable buses.
- Safe, rule-abiding driving.
Commuters trusted Super Metro, making it the preferred choice for many Nairobi residents.
The Warning Signs
In April 2023, they took a controversial step by banning loud music across its fleet. While this was meant to enhance commuter comfort, it hinted at deeper service inconsistencies. This move showed that Sacco was struggling to balance its brand identity with shifting commuter expectations.
However, the real problems became apparent in March 2025 when safety issues emerged, shaking public confidence in the Sacco.
The Fatal Incident and Public Outrage
In March 2025, a tragic incident involving a passenger named Gilbert Thuku Kimani occurred. Allegedly, he was pushed from a moving the bus over a fare dispute. Reports indicated that he had only 50 Bob while the fare from Wendani was 80 Bob.
This incident led to widespread public outrage and scrutiny over S/Metro’s crew training and passenger handling. However, a senior S/Metro driver claimed that the deceased had thrown himself out of the bus.
A viral video surfaced where a Kenyan man claimed to have witnessed the event, saying, “Kitu niliona na macho, hakutupwa!” (What I saw with my own eyes, he wasn’t thrown!).
Super Metro NTSA License Suspension
Following public outcry, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) suspended Super Metro’s operating license. Investigations revealed several operational failures, including:
- 15 vehicles with expired inspection certificates.
- 8 vehicles operating without valid Road Service Licenses.
- Multiple speed limiter violations.
- Unqualified drivers.
These findings exposed systemic failures in Sacco’s management, further eroding public trust.
Decline in Passenger Confidence
Once a household name in Nairobi’s transport sector, Super Metro now faced a significant decline in passengers. Commuters started boarding their buses with fear, worried about safety and payment failures, such as Mpesa not working mid-journey.
Several accidents involving Super Metro buses were also reported, including one on the Southern Bypass, raising concerns over vehicle maintenance and driver competency.
A viral video surfaced showing a Super Metro conductor addressing the Sacco’s rivals after NTSA’s suspension, saying, “Siku yenu itafika” (Your day will come), suggesting that competition may have played a role in their downfall.
Super Metro’s Fleet Grounded and Job Losses
With the NTSA ban in place, Super Metro’s fleets were grounded, leaving many employees jobless. Once a thriving business, the Sacco was now struggling to stay afloat. Images and videos circulated online showing rows of parked Super Metro buses, no longer in operation.
This opened doors for other matatu Saccos like Nicco and Lopha Travellers to take over key routes previously dominated by Super Metro.
Can Super Metro Make a Comeback?
For Super Metro to reclaim its esteemed status, comprehensive measures must be taken, including:
- Adhering strictly to NTSA regulations.
- Implementing rigorous crew training programs focused on safety and customer service.
- Rebuilding passenger trust through transparent communication and consistent service improvements.
The journey ahead is challenging, but with dedicated efforts, Super Metro can aspire to restore its legacy in Nairobi’s public transport landscape.
Final Thoughts
Will Super Metro make a comeback and return to its prime? The answer depends on how seriously its management takes the need for reform. Trust, once lost, is hard to regain, but with the right changes, Nairobi’s beloved matatu Sacco might stand a chance at redemption.
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