Kenya right on matatus
Feb 03, 2004
PUBLIC TRANSPORT is in chaos in Nairobi as the government has insisted that all matatus fit speed regulators and seatbelts by 31 January. The police are now patrolling the streets to ensure that all taxis have complied with the deadline.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT is in chaos in Nairobi as the government has insisted that all matatus fit speed regulators and seatbelts by 31 January. The police are now patrolling the streets to ensure that all taxis have complied with the deadline.
As a result there is a severe shortage of matatus on the streets. Nevertheless the Kenyan government took the correct decision and is right to stand by it, even if there are temporary transport disruptions in the short-term.
Hardly a week passes in Uganda without a horrific accident involving matatus and multiple deaths.
The main problem is speeding. Matatu drivers, and bus drivers, are reckless and travel at speeds far above what is safe, especially on journeys upcountry. Uganda should also introduce speed regulators on taxis and buses.
There is also overwhelming evidence that seatbelts save lives. Seatbelts in taxis could dramatically reduce the number of deaths in accidents. Uganda too should insist on the use of seatbelts in taxis and also in private cars.
Ends
As a result there is a severe shortage of matatus on the streets. Nevertheless the Kenyan government took the correct decision and is right to stand by it, even if there are temporary transport disruptions in the short-term.
Hardly a week passes in Uganda without a horrific accident involving matatus and multiple deaths.
The main problem is speeding. Matatu drivers, and bus drivers, are reckless and travel at speeds far above what is safe, especially on journeys upcountry. Uganda should also introduce speed regulators on taxis and buses.
There is also overwhelming evidence that seatbelts save lives. Seatbelts in taxis could dramatically reduce the number of deaths in accidents. Uganda too should insist on the use of seatbelts in taxis and also in private cars.
Ends