Event Details
Date: August 27–28, 2024
Venue: Gelian Hotel, Machakos
Overview
The workshop held on August 27–28, 2024, at Gelian Hotel Machakos, brought together key stakeholders to discuss crucial public transport projects aimed at enhancing service delivery, efficiency, and infrastructure. The event focused on the Ngong Road Pilot Project (NPP) and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 2 project, highlighting the importance of collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable transport solutions.
High-Level Stakeholder Engagement Workshop
A high-level stakeholder engagement workshop was convened at the Gelian Hotel in Machakos to discuss the implementation of the BRT Line 2 project. Organized by NaMATA in collaboration with JK Kibicho Advocates, the event brought together government agencies, industry experts, and civil society organizations, including:
- Federation of Public Transport Sector (FPTS)
- Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
- National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA)
- Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA)
Focus Areas and Discussions
The workshop, led by NaMATA Director-General Eng. Francis Gitau, facilitated open discussions on:
- Objectives of BRT Line 2
- Role of FPTS in the project
- Capital structure of the Bus Operating Company (BOC)
- Governance and compliance frameworks
- Operating structure of the BOC
Participants emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and continuous engagement with public transport operators and civil society organizations to ensure the project’s success.
Ngong Road Pilot Project (NPP)
Discussions also focused on the Ngong Road Pilot Project (NPP), an initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of public transport operations along the Ngong Road route.
JICA experts presented the project proposal to Ngong Road Matatu Operators, outlining a two-phased approach:
- Phase 1: Research and analysis to identify key transport challenges
- Phase 2: Detailed data collection, traffic studies, and a review of existing regulations
Stakeholder Concerns and Recommendations
Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators raised key concerns, including:
- Service provision
- Fare regulation
- Congestion and competition
- Infrastructure challenges such as inadequate bus stops
The discussions emphasized the importance of improved communication and comprehensive surveys to effectively address these issues.
PSV operators expressed a desire to participate directly in the project without the need for forming new companies, stressing the importance of maintaining open communication with NTSA to gather the necessary data and insights.
Concerns were also raised about the project’s timeline, with operators suggesting that the one-month pilot phase might be too short to yield meaningful results. In response, NaMATA and JICA reaffirmed their commitment to addressing these concerns and ensuring the project aligns with the needs of all stakeholders.
Conclusion
The Machakos Workshop provided a crucial platform for engaging stakeholders in transforming Kenya’s public transport system. The BRT Line 2 and Ngong Road Pilot Project represent significant strides toward improving public transport services, infrastructure, and governance.
By fostering collaboration, transparency, and inclusive stakeholder engagement, these initiatives have the potential to create a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable public transport system for Kenya’s urban centers.