It is estimated that 25,000 matatus (minibuses) operate on Kenyan roads, constituting the bulk of public transport.

In February 2004, the ministry of transport introduced new regulations governing the operation of matatus, including fitting of safety belts and speed governors.

In addition, carrying excess passengers in buses and matatus was banned. The implementation of the regulations led to a drastic reduction in the number of people killed or injured in road accidents.

In Nairobi, the number of large buses plying city routes has increased. They include City Hoppa, Double M, Kenya Bus Service and the Smart Bus. The growth of bus transport companies has been buoyed by the need to decongest city roads, especially in the Central Business District (CBD).

The Government has built a major bus terminus outside the CBD, where buses and matatus terminate their journeys. There are plans to construct more terminals on the outskirts of the city, as well as build parking bays for private cars to decongest the CBD.

Across the country, the Ministry of Transport has improved standards of comfort and safety in public transport through continuous inspection of public service vehicles.

Because it oversees a robust sector that attracts new investors every day, the ministry has developed a regulatory framework that is enforced by various agencies. The Transport Licensing Board ensures harmony in the provision of road transport services.