56 photos of Magical Matatus in Kenya
One of the first things I noticed when arrived in Nairobi, Kenya were the matatus. Matatus are these seemingly chaotic (to the western eye) transportation system in mini vans that appear to sell entertainment along with the ride. I had seen and ridden in them a lot coming from Uganda, but there they were simple, and mostly the same, with the occasional inspirational quote, bible verse, or interesting interpretation of western culture. But in Kenya, WOW, did these matatus have PERSONALITY. Every time I saw one that surprised me and thought, “no way they could top that!” Well, they of course did! I immediately began photographing as many matatus and expressive forms of transportation as I could.
Mataus are privately owned and manned by a driver and a conductor. You will often see the conductor hanging out the side of the matatus, searching for riders by yelling destinations and routes. They are known to blast music from the speakers installed on the roofs and decorate every centimeter possible to attract customers.
In the photos below you will find renditions of J. Lo, Nike Air Maxes, Red Bull and the Steelers. Enjoy…
Obviously this was one of my favorite matatus and I was lucky it was parked at a petrol station for me to have friend snap this picture of me!
A conductor hanging out the side of the matatu looking for riders.
I was SO happy to get this shot of Rihanna on a Matatu, we kept loosing her in traffic, but I was able to get this much!
Also please note that the driver’s window says “Back off.“
Hustle or be broke.
It’s simple.
Swagger, God is Great, Beyonce, and 50 Cent
What more could you ask more?
Mickey Mouse hands shooting a gun, a perfect likeness of Chris Brown, “All cops are Bastards,” DJ Khaled,
The Reichsadler ("Imperial Eagle") which I believe is a symbol for Nazi Germany on the passenger door…
I am curious what kind of riders were they appealing to here?
Sometimes the best gain is to loose.
As seen on the middle window.
ITS J. LO! and if you look close enough you can also see Drake above the back right wheel.
“Am not hot am great”
Also please note the shovel as a handle to open the trunk.
Uncle Sam
Apparently he is recruiting in Kenya as well.
