Machakos County intensifies infrastructure investment as UMOWA SACCO expands fleet with 10 new buses

Speaking on Friday while flagging off ten brand-new minibuses acquired by UMOWA Transport SACCO, Governor Wavinya Ndeti said the county administration would continue modernizing and maintaining critical infrastructure to facilitate business growth and safeguard private sector investments.

The governor challenged public transport operators to expand beyond their traditional routes and tap into opportunities in other regions, arguing that diversification would enhance competitiveness and unlock new revenue streams in the rapidly evolving transport sector.

Drawing inspiration from the historic Akamba Bus Service, which grew into one of East Africa’s most successful transport enterprises, Wavinya urged local SACCOs to adopt an ambitious growth mindset and establish a broader regional presence.

“As public transport operators, you need to venture into other routes outside the county in order to exploit the available opportunities for growth in the public transport sector. Just as we have welcomed transporters from other regions to operate within Machakos, I challenge you to explore similar opportunities elsewhere. Where you need my assistance, I will support you,” she said.

The governor noted that UMOWA SACCO’s multimillion-shilling investment in the new fleet would contribute significantly to job creation while strengthening the county’s transport network.

“I commend UMOWA SACCO for this investment because it aligns with my administration’s vision of creating more employment opportunities for our people,” she added.

Wavinya emphasized that growth in the matatu sector generates far-reaching economic benefits beyond direct employment, stimulating business activity in vehicle maintenance, fuel supply, hospitality, and other enterprises that depend on vibrant transport corridors.

She further announced that the county government was undertaking substantial investments in road infrastructure aimed at improving connectivity, reducing vehicle operating costs, and supporting the expansion of public transport services.

The governor reiterated her administration’s commitment to year-round road maintenance and modernization programs to ensure transport operators and investors can conduct business efficiently without incurring avoidable losses caused by poor road conditions.

County Executive Committee Member for Transport Nathaniel Nganga said the county government was also implementing measures to ensure fairness and transparency in the management of bus parks and transport facilities.

Nganga noted that ongoing reforms were aimed at creating a level playing field for all operators while improving efficiency within the public transport sector.

UMOWA SACCO Chairman Anthony Mutua praised the county administration for fostering constructive engagement with transport stakeholders, investing in infrastructure, and supporting capacity-building initiatives for transport workers.

He said the partnership between the county government and transport operators had created a conducive environment for growth and investment in the sector.