Whether we like them or not, using matatus is a must for most people living within Nairobi to either get to work, go to school or get from one point or another.
90 percent of all Nairobians use matatus on a daily basis so it should come naturally to observe some universal etiquette considering the fact that you are sharing the service with other people.
That said, I have compiled a list of the most annoying habits by some Kenyan passengers that will ruin your ride in a matatu.
Refusing to open the windows
If you seat next to the window, please do us the courtesy of opening them. TB is real and it scares me. This goes to passengers who insist on having the windows closed even when the matatu is stationary, or moving at 20 kilometers per hour.
If you are afraid of losing your valuables to thieves or getting cold please don’t sit next to the window.
Eating in matatus
This has to be the most annoying thing ever in matatus. You are stuck in traffic and out of the blues, the person seated next to you unleashes a packet of fries and chicken.
Packaged French fries or any type of food smell horrible. Eating in matatus is cheap and portrays a blatant lack of class.
Dozing off and using the next person as a pillow
I understand most of us are usually very tired at the end of the day or you just didn’t get enough sleep the previous night.
Even so, that doesn’t give you the right to put your sleepy head on my shoulder!
Peeping through other people’s phones
There is nothing as annoying as a fellow passenger sitting next to you in the matatu craning his or her neck and leaning forward to read whatever you are texting or browsing online.
Read Also: 5 Most Disciplined and Safest Matatu Saccos In Nairobi
Watching videos on loud from the phones
Some passengers, especially the old folks in matatus without a radio or music turn to their phones for entertainment.
The problem is they turn this on so loudly without headphones, forcing all passengers to listen to their poor choice of music.
Woman with three kids but pays for one seat
How do you travel with three kids in matatus but pay for only one seat? We understand the economy is hard but how is that supposed to work, especially when two of those kids are obese?
Then the annoying bit about the situation is that these women forcibly push their kids onto your lap without asking.
If you ask nicely, we will happily help with one child, but don’t act entitled.
The conversation starters
Its too early to start conversations in matatus at 7 am with the person seated next to you, given the fact that you barely know them.
No one likes to talk to strangers unless you’re not sure where you’re going.
Occupy your own space
If you have long legs or you are naturally huge, please find your way around the situation but please do not occupy another passenger’s space.
It’s really tiring having to travel when you are squeezed and have no personal space.
Sweaty Armpits
It’s extremely hot in Nairobi but that doesn’t give you the right to spoil other people’s trip on matatus due to your smelly armpits.
Invest in a good deodorant and make sure you shower well in the morning.