Nairobi Marks World Public Transport Day with Push for Electric Buses and Safer, People-Centered Mobility

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By Steve 

Nairobi City is accelerating its transition toward a cleaner and more inclusive transport system, with officials using World Public Transport Day to highlight major reforms aimed at reducing emissions and improving commuter experience.

Speaking during the event, Director General Francis Gitau underscored the city’s commitment to embracing electric buses as part of efforts to cut pollution and demonstrate Nairobi’s seriousness in addressing climate change. He described electric mobility as a crucial step toward achieving clean air and building a sustainable “future-ready city.”

Gitau noted that the shift to electric buses reflects a broader vision where development goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. He emphasized that modern transport solutions must not only move people efficiently but also protect the environment for future generations.
The DG pointed to the Nairobi City County Transport Act as the foundation guiding these changes. Developed in collaboration with transport stakeholders, the policy serves as a blueprint for creating a system that is both sustainable and accessible.

A key pillar of the reforms is the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network plan, which aims to formalize routes, improve accessibility, and ensure reliable first- and last-mile connectivity across the city. According to Gitau, this will help streamline urban mobility while making public transport more efficient for Nairobi residents.

He also highlighted the importance of pedestrian infrastructure, noting that every journey begins and ends on foot. The county is prioritizing facilities that support safe walking and enhance the experience of public transport users.
In addition, Nairobi is introducing a reporting system within the transport sector that will allow citizens to report offenses directly. The initiative is expected to strengthen accountability and make safety a shared responsibility among all road users.

However, Gitau stressed that infrastructure and technology alone are not enough. “People move the city,” he said, calling for recognition of the workforce behind the public transport system.

He paid tribute to conductors, mechanics, dispatchers, cleaners, and traffic marshals, praising their dedication and describing them as essential to keeping the city running.
As Nairobi marks World Public Transport Day, city leaders say the focus remains on building a transport system that is clean, efficient, and centered on the needs of its people.

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