UMOWA Sacco has unveiled a new fleet of nine matatus in a move aimed at improving public transport services and creating employment opportunities in Machakos County and the surrounding region.
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti flagged off the vehicles on Friday outside the County Department of Roads and Public Works offices, reaffirming her administration’s commitment to fast-tracking the construction of a new bus park to ease congestion at the current Machakos Bus Park.
Speaking during the launch, the governor described the transport sector as a key driver of economic growth and pledged continued county support to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“The transport sector plays a very integral role in our economy. Our role as a county government is to facilitate a conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” said Wavinya.
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She noted that revenue collection from the matatu sector had increased significantly from Sh2 million to Ksh12 million per month following reforms implemented by the county government.
The governor further emphasized the importance of quality road infrastructure in supporting the sector, revealing that the county had constructed seven new roads to improve connectivity and enhance transport services.
Wavinya disclosed plans to establish a modern bus park in Machakos, adding that the county had already signed a memorandum of understanding with matatu owners to facilitate the project.
“I have a great plan of building a new bus park here in Machakos. I signed a memorandum with matatu owners,” she said.
She added that her administration had created a level playing field for all transport saccos, enabling fair competition, economic growth and job creation.
UMOWA Sacco Chairman Antony Mutua said the newly launched vehicles form part of a larger fleet expansion programme involving 20 buses, with the remaining 11 currently under construction.
“Today, our main objective is to help ease transport challenges in Machakos. We have listened to the concerns of our passengers and intend to reduce the fare to Nairobi to Sh250 in order to accommodate our customers,” said Mutua.
He reaffirmed the Sacco’s commitment to supporting development through job creation and the provision of reliable transport services to residents.
By Stephen Muthini
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