Learning in most day schools across Kisii and Nyamira counties was paralysed on Monday, May 18 after motorists staged a strike in protest against the rising cost of fuel.
Students and teachers commuting along major roads, including the Daraja Mbili–Jogoo route in Kisii, were forced to return home after public transport operations ground to a halt. Both matatu and boda boda operators suspended services, leaving hundreds stranded.
The disruption also affected the Marani–Kisii road, Suneka–Kisii route, Kijauri–Keroka–Nyangusu corridor, and the Kisii–Ogembo–Kilgoris highway.
The strike dealt an immediate blow to education in the two counties, with day scholars unable to access schools and teachers commuting from neighbouring areas failing to report to work. Schools that rely heavily on daily attendance recorded extremely low turnout, leading to widespread cancellation of lessons.
Beyond the education sector, the transport paralysis disrupted trade and access to essential services. Farmers and traders were unable to deliver produce to markets, resulting in losses as perishable goods spoiled. Businesses in Kisii town also recorded reduced activity as residents struggled to travel.
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Matatu and boda boda operators counted losses after missing a full day’s income, while residents seeking medical attention, government services, or work opportunities were left stranded. The few operators who remained on the roads charged inflated fares, piling further pressure on households already grappling with the high cost of living.
Tensions escalated in some areas as groups of youth barricaded roads and burned tyres in protest. Police engaged in running battles with the protesters in efforts to clear roads and restore normalcy. The confrontations caused further delays and heightened anxiety among residents.
The strike has exposed the heavy dependence of communities in Kisii and Nyamira on daily public transport, with even a brief shutdown severely affecting education, healthcare, trade, and movement across the region.
By Enock Okong’o
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