Kenyan Truck Drivers Demand Urgent Talks With Ruto Over Rot in Transport Sector

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Kenyan Truck Drivers Demand Urgent Talks With Ruto Over Rot in Transport Sector

Long-distance truck drivers and conductors are demanding an urgent meeting with President William Ruto to address what they term as rot and neglect in the transport sector.

In an open letter released by the Long-Distance Drivers and Conductors Association, the workers painted a bleak picture of life on Kenyan roads, citing insecurity, poor working conditions, systemic harassment and lack of government support as reasons for their appeal.

“Mr President, the transport sector is the backbone of our economy. Without drivers and conductors, supply chains collapse, goods stall and the economy comes to a standstill. Yet we are invisible, seen only when tragedies strike or when levies are imposed,” the letter read.

The association is demanding the establishment of a Presidential Drivers’ Roundtable where drivers’ representatives, key ministries and state agencies will engage directly with the Head of State on the challenges facing the industry.

The letter outlined multiple grievances including long working hours, delayed wages, no formal contracts and no job security. According to the drivers, these conditions have pushed many into stress and mental health issues but no support systems are available.

They accused the Ministry of Labour of turning a blind eye to their plight, leaving thousands of drivers to operate in what they term as inhumane conditions. State agencies such as NTSA, KeNHA and KRA were also put on the spot with the drivers alleging corruption and inefficiency.

“Despite our central role, no government in Kenya’s history has ever fully recognized our efforts in sustaining and moving the economy. We are unseen and undervalued even as we bear the risks and sacrifices that keep Kenya connected and regionally competitive,” the drivers added.

The letter also flagged high-risk routes in North Eastern, Rift Valley, Nyanza and parts of the Coast where drivers are hijacked, attacked and face constant insecurity. They also accused rogue police officers of harassment and extortion through fake charges and arbitrary arrests.

Beyond the roundtable demand, the drivers also proposed the creation of a National Drivers’ Week to formally recognize and celebrate the role of drivers and conductors in sustaining Kenya’s economy.

The association is now waiting for a response from the government, warning that continued neglect of their sector poses a serious threat to supply chains and economic stability.

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Kenyan Truck Drivers Demand Urgent Talks With Ruto Over Rot in Transport Sector