NAIROBI, Oct. 28 (Xinhua) -- "Pomp and color" are what characterize the public service minibusses and vans in Kenya. Popularly known as "matatus" privately owned shared taxis are the main means of public transport plying various routes in East Africa Country. According to Kenya's Ministry of Transport, about 60 percent of Kenya's population uses matatus as a mode of transport. In Kenya, the "matatu" has become a culture as the owners of the vehicles spend millions of shillings modifying cars into more attractive outfit that includes modern LCD screen, trendy music, flashy lights, and many other features.
Maxwell Ogae, popularly known by his peers as Maksee is one of the artists that paint many matatus in Nairobi. Maksee says he uses the matatu body as a platform to express different themes and thoughts influenced by both personal experiences or anything trending on social media. This may include popular politicians, movie stars, or even Disney animations. He told Xinhua that this is a passion he has had since childhood.
"I learned it from my dad. So it's been in me ever since I was young to date. It takes about 3 weeks to a month to complete and may cost about 4,000 to 6,000 dollars depending on the art design and other accessories," said Maxwell.
Although the youth working in the matatu industry are infamous for breaking traffic rules so as to get to their destinations faster, a vice that the Kenya traffic police battles daily, the larger group comprising most youth love the vehicles for varying reasons.
Cecilia Njenga, who migrated from Central Kenya to the capital for work, has been living in Nairobi for over 15 years says she loves the convenience of the "matatus".
"I love their music, and they are very fast. I don't get to have too much time in traffic," Cecilie told Xinhua.
Besides providing a convenient and affordable means of transport for the citizens, the matatu industry has also provided thousands of jobs for many. Morio Muriuki a driver in Nairobi says they can carry up to 500 passengers in one day. He starts his work as early as 5 am every day to 11 pm.
"I have been a driver in this industry for the last 8 years. The reason why people love this is the appearance of the vehicle, maintenance, and customer service," said Morio.
The word "matatu" is a Swahili word meaning "three" which originated from the three pennies passengers used to pay when the industry began in the 1970s.
