- In recent years, Embakasi has emerged as Nairobi’s trendiest matatu route, drawing top-tier vehicles and investors
- The shift of iconic rides like Money Fest and Matrix only cemented its reputation as the new matatu hub
- TUKO.co.ke spoke to Pride of Embakasi founder Mohalized on the factors that contribute to the route’s appeal
Through the years, different routes in Nairobi have been touted as having the best matatus.
Source: Facebook
Until around 2020, Ongata Rongai ruled with PSVs such as Catalyst, Sparx, Giovanni, and Phantom. Before then, Buru Buru had the top spot.
Why does Embakasi have Nairobi’s hottest matatus?
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However, times have changed and Embakasi currently boasts some of the hottest PSVs in Nairobi.
For instance, George Ruto’s Money Fest operated on the Ongata Rongai route before moving to Embakasi. The first son’s other vehicles, the game-changing Mood and Matrix, also ply along the route.
Other notable vehicles include Brawl Out, Dice, Optimus, Droid, and Bionic, among others.
So, what attracts investors to Embakasi?
Mohalized, the brain behind the Pride of Embakasi brand, offered insights to TUKO.co.ke.
Moha has spent years covering and creating content on Embakasi matatus and boasts over 65,000 Instagram followers.
According to Moha, the alternate routes to Embakasi and the road conditions play a key role in the route’s success.
“It is a short route and smooth. There are also many alternative routes that make it easy for drivers to maneuver.”
Moha admitted that investors with PSVs on the route earn good money.
“I know an investor with five vehicles, and for them to invest more, it is profitable. The investors appreciate the route, and the crew are also paid well.”
Moha also noted that a key aspect of the scramble for the Embakasi route is the management.
“The Embassava and Royal Swift saccos, which operate along the route, are well-managed, which motivates investors.
They ensure all vehicles are given priority for passengers to board and offer assistance when their matatus have issues with the police or Nairobi City County. Discipline was an issue, but they also addressed that.”
However, Moha, arguably best placed to choose the best matatu along the route, was at a loss.
“It is hard to choose the number one matatu because what you find in one matatu, you will not find in another.”
So, which is the next route to take over from Embakasi? Time will tell.
What happened to the Catalyst matatu?
Source: UGC
In other news, TUKO.co.ke reported that one of the most iconic PSVs was Catalyst, a matatu on the Ongata Rongai route.
It gained massive attention, especially when American artiste Trey Songz boarded it, alongside Nyashinski.
Designed by Choda, Catalyst had an array of TV screens and chrome rims, all splattered with bold yellow and red graffiti.
Its lively crew drew in young passengers, cementing its popularity. However, its rise ended tragically after a fatal accident in 2016, leading to its swift fall from fame.
Despite its decline, Catalyst remains a legendary symbol in Nairobi’s matatu culture.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
