East African Legislative Assembly Member Winnie Odinga has voiced strong opposition to the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) recent directive that requires all public service vehicles (PSVs) to remove graffiti and tinted windows immediately. While she agrees that removing window tints is reasonable, she insists that graffiti is a vital part of matatu culture and should not be banned.
In a statement shared on her social media, Winnie Odinga emphasized that graffiti is more than just decoration; it is a cultural expression that reflects the creativity and identity of young people involved in the matatu industry. She urged the NTSA to reconsider their harsh enforcement approach and instead focus on providing road safety training for drivers and conductors. According to her, punitive measures such as banning graffiti unfairly target the youth and do not address the core issue of improving road safety.
The NTSA’s directive comes as part of its efforts to enforce stricter compliance with transport regulations and to promote safer road usage. The authority has highlighted various violations by matatu operators, prompting corrective instructions that include ensuring all PSVs prominently display the name of their registered SACCO or company on the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. Operators are also required to maintain uniform branding across their fleets and to avoid unauthorized decorations that clash with the approved design.
In addition, NTSA mandates that drivers and conductors must wear prescribed uniforms, possess valid driving licenses, public service badges, and hold the correct vehicle class certification. They are also expected to control music volume within the vehicles to prevent disturbances during passenger journeys. Non-compliance with these directives could lead to suspension of matatu operations or even revocation of their licenses.
Matatu graffiti, however, remains a beloved and distinctive feature of Nairobi’s transport scene. These minibuses are famously decorated with vibrant, colorful artwork that often includes portraits of celebrities, dynamic patterns, and culturally significant symbols. This tradition transforms the vehicles into moving works of art and has become an integral part of the urban cultural fabric.
For instance, a Nairobi matatu recently gained international attention when it featured a large graffiti portrait of American music producer DJ Khaled on its rear, alongside his hit track “Another One.” This display highlighted how matatu art can connect local culture to global influences, celebrating figures admired worldwide while reinforcing the unique style that makes these vehicles stand out.
Prominent matatu graffiti artists explain that incorporating famous international and local celebrities in their artwork is both a mark of respect and a smart marketing strategy. Such artwork captivates public admiration and turns the matatus into mobile advertisements, drawing the attention of passengers and passersby alike.
Winnie Odinga’s call for the preservation of graffiti as a cultural expression underlines the importance of balancing regulation with respect for creativity and heritage. She encourages authorities to prioritize education and training over punitive crackdowns, fostering a safer yet culturally rich transport environment.
