Super Metro, one of Kenya’s most trusted and organized matatu saccos, is now at a crossroads.
In a shocking blow to its reputation and operations, the Transport Licensing Appeals Board (TLAB) has ordered Super Metro to fire 269 unqualified drivers before resuming any services.
This development comes as part of eight tough conditions imposed on the SACCO, which must be fulfilled, or it remains indefinitely suspended.
The ruling, delivered on Monday, April 14, has shaken the transport industry, putting a spotlight on long-overlooked safety and compliance violations.
TLAB Slams Super Metro with Eight Strict Conditions
Super Metro, once praised for its discipline and customer service, is now under intense scrutiny from regulatory authorities.
The TLAB tribunal has issued a stern directive ordering the immediate disengagement of 269 drivers who were found to be unqualified.
The order references a specific list of drivers contained in court documents sworn on April 10, 2025.
This decision comes after growing concerns about road safety violations involving Super Metro vehicles. But that’s just the beginning.
The SACCO has been handed seven more compliance measures:
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Retesting of Overspeeding Drivers
42 drivers flagged for overspeeding must report to the Likoni Driver Test Centre for immediate evaluation. -
Vehicle Inspection
Eight vehicles identified with tampered or malfunctioning speed limiters must undergo checks at the Likoni Motor Vehicle Inspection Centre. -
Additional Compliance Reviews
31 other vehicles flagged for inspection issues must also be reevaluated, with compliance reports submitted to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). -
Proof of Road Safety Training
The sacco must provide detailed minutes and attendance lists showing all its drivers have undergone road safety sensitisation sessions. -
Suspension of Operations Continues
Orders issued earlier on March 18, suspending operations, have been reinstated. Super Metro is barred from operating until full compliance is confirmed. -
Further Review Hearing Set
The tribunal has scheduled a follow-up mention on April 17 to assess compliance and issue additional directions. -
Official Notification of Suspension
A written notice confirming the temporary suspension has been issued, affirming that any violations during this period will carry legal consequences.
These measures represent one of the most aggressive enforcement actions taken against a public transport provider in recent times.
Super Metro’s Response: “We Respect the Ruling”
In response to the tribunal’s orders, Super Metro issued a public statement acknowledging the ruling and announcing the suspension of all services for three days to ensure full compliance.
“Following a hearing with the Transport Licensing Appeals Board today, the Board has directed Super Metro Limited to suspend operations for the next three days to finalise the remaining compliance measures,” the statement read.
The sacco also reassured passengers and regulators that 90% of the conditions from its March suspension had already been met.
“Super Metro Limited fully respects the decisions of the TLAB and the court. We are working diligently to address the outstanding compliance issues within the stipulated timeframe and will resume operations as soon as we receive approval from the relevant authorities.”
This crisis, however, marks a significant turning point for the matatu sector — especially for saccos that have been allowed to operate under poor oversight for years.
A Wake-Up Call for Kenya’s Public Transport Sector
Super Metro’s suspension is not just about one sacco. It’s a wake-up call for the entire matatu industry, known for years of unchecked operations, lax enforcement, and rampant flouting of safety protocols.
The ruling sends a strong message: professionalism, safety, and compliance are no longer optional.
Public confidence in Super Metro has taken a hit, but this development might also create an opportunity. If the sacco follows through with full transparency and reform, it could regain trust and emerge even stronger. If not, other saccos may follow in facing similar consequences.
The NTSA and TLAB now appear serious about enforcing rules that were previously only written on paper.
As more saccos come under review, passengers might finally see meaningful improvements in road safety and service quality.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on Super Metro. Will it clean house and bounce back? Or will the popular sacco become an example of what happens when you ignore the rules for too long?
For now, the roads will feel the absence of Super Metro’s signature green-and-white fleet — and 269 drivers will be out of work as Kenya’s transport regulators take a much-needed stand.
