By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 6 January 2026 - Commuters traveling from Kisumu to Nairobi are now paying significantly higher fares, with shuttle services charging as much as KSh 3,000 one way, up from the previous rate of KSh 1,500.
The sudden doubling of fares has sparked frustration among passengers, who say the increases are putting a strain on household budgets.
Ms Jackline Atieno, a regular commuter, said, “I usually traveled for KSh 1,500 but now I have to pay KSh 3,000. It is becoming very expensive just to go to Nairobi.”
Ms Rose Awino, another passenger, added, “Sometimes you have no choice. The shuttles are full, and the prices are high, but we have to travel for work or family matters.”
Mr Victor Ochieng, who commutes weekly for business, noted that the hikes are making long-distance travel unpredictable.
“You cannot plan properly because the price can change depending on the operator and the number of passengers. What was KSh 1,500 is now KSh 3,000 in some shuttles,” he said.
Paul Okello, a student traveling from Kisumu for university matters, said, “It is stressful. Even if you leave early, you have to pay the higher fare just to secure a seat. The operators say it is unavoidable.”
Transport operators say the fare increases are largely due to rising fuel costs and operational challenges.
A matatu owner explained, “Fuel prices went up sharply last September, and since then, running a shuttle has become more expensive. We have to adjust the fares to cover our costs.”
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Another operator added, “Sometimes we have to wait long hours at the pump because of fuel shortages or long queues. By the time we fill our tanks, the price has already changed. These challenges directly affect how much we charge commuters.”
The surge in fares also reflects the realities of long-distance travel in Kenya.
Vehicles heading from Kisumu to Nairobi often return with fewer passengers, forcing operators to increase outbound fares to remain profitable.
Seasonal and demand pressures compound the problem; during school holidays and festive periods, shuttle services are in high demand, allowing operators to set premium prices.
Passengers describe a split in the market, with smaller vans or less-known operators charging slightly lower fares to attract commuters, while larger or more established shuttles maintain the higher rates.
“Even if you look for cheaper options, the timing and availability often leave you no choice but to pay more,” Ms Jackline Atieno said.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension in Kenya’s transport sector between keeping fares affordable for passengers and ensuring operators can maintain services. Rising fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and limited availability of long-distance shuttles have combined to push fares higher, making travel from Kisumu to Nairobi one of the more expensive inter-county trips.
For commuters like Rose Awino, Victor Ochieng, and Paul Okello, the reality is clear: securing a seat on a shuttle now comes at a premium, and the cost of mobility continues to rise in line with operational pressures.
