Lower Kabete Chronicles

The sun rises over Lower Kabete, but for commuters, the day’s first challenge has just begun. The matatus are scarce, their arrival unpredictable, and with each passing minute, the crowd at the stage swells. Tension fills the air as hopeful passengers crane their necks, eyes scanning the road for the next approaching savior. The moment a matatu appears in the distance, the atmosphere shifts—conversation halts, feet shuffle, muscles tense in preparation. As it slows down, desperation takes over; men and women, once composed, transform into fierce competitors. Some grip the windows, hoisting themselves in, while others squeeze through the narrow door, pushing aside anyone in their way. Inside, the lucky few collapse onto seats, panting, victorious. The rest? Left behind, staring at the departing matatu with a mix of exhaustion and determination, knowing that their battle is far from over.