City bus stops boom with upcountry travels in Christmas rush

Nairobi is a hive of activity, as last-minute travelers stream out of the city to celebrate Christmas upcountry.

Public transport terminals are packed with passengers and luggage, many left stranded by a shortage of vehicles as the festive countdown enters its final days.

“I’m going to Kitale. People are many. I’ve searched for a vehicle for three days. Today is when I got one,” says Consolata Ofiti, a traveler.

Fares have shot up sharply, stretching travelers already squeezed by a tough economy.

“The fare was one thousand five hundred. Now it’s two thousand five hundred to three thousand. That’s too much, especially with return travel and school reopening in January,” another traveler, Sylvia Adhiambo says.

“We used to charge two thousand. Now it’s between two thousand five hundred and three thousand,” remarks George Ogutu an attendant from Nyaugenya Bus Company.

While this surge is common on routes to western Kenya and Nyanza, this year comes with an unusual sight. Heavier luggage. As some say they are leaving the city altogether due to the high cost of living.

“We buy things in Nairobi and take them home. Life here is expensive. I’m leaving, even with my stool,” Celvin Omondi, a Siaya resident told Citizen TV.

Another traveler, Steve Oyoo says, “Most of this is household luggage. People are relocating. The economy is pushing ordinary people out of the city.”

With demand far outstripping supply, transport operators say they have enlisted short-distance vehicles to ease the pressure, while assuring travelers of their safety.