Nairobi has taken a significant step toward reforming its often chaotic public transportation system with the launch of the Route 111 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) pilot project. This initiative signals the city’s growing commitment to offering a more structured, predictable, and commuter-friendly travel experience. The new pilot, which serves as the inaugural phase of a broader BRT rollout, aims to bring much-needed stability and efficiency to a transport network long plagued by delays, fare inconsistencies, and unreliable service.
At the heart of the Route 111 BRT pilot is a simple but transformative idea: scheduled departures and fixed fares. This is a notable shift from the existing matatu-dominated system, where vehicles typically only leave once full and fares can fluctuate wildly depending on time of day, weather, or driver discretion. In contrast, the BRT buses will adhere to a predetermined timetable, ensuring that passengers can plan their trips with greater confidence and consistency. The introduction of reliable departure times stands to greatly reduce waiting periods and bring a sense of order to daily commutes.
In addition to improved scheduling, the fixed fare system marks a welcome change for Nairobi’s commuters. Traditionally, fare unpredictability has been a major pain point, especially during peak hours or inclement weather when prices can surge. The BRT pilot introduces standardized fares, giving commuters clarity and control over their transport expenses. For a city where many people rely on public transport daily, this change is poised to significantly improve quality of life and financial planning.
Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar has praised the project as a symbol of what collaborative governance can achieve. He highlighted the pilot as a demonstration of unified efforts across government agencies and partners working together to solve the pressing challenges of urban mobility. His optimism reflects a broader hope that the Route 111 pilot could serve as a model for future public transport initiatives in Kenya and beyond.
The pilot is only the starting point in Nairobi’s long-term plan to overhaul its public transport infrastructure. Earlier this year, the city secured substantial international funding to support this vision. Backed by €320 million (approximately KSh43.4 billion) from the European Investment Bank, the French Development Agency, and the European Union, Nairobi is poised to develop a modern BRT network that is not only efficient but environmentally conscious. The first major construction phase will see the development of a 12-kilometre corridor running from Dandora to Kenyatta National Hospital along Juja Road, with future expansions planned to interconnect additional areas.
If successful, the Route 111 pilot could catalyse the transformation of how residents move across the city. It represents more than just new buses or routes—it’s a promise of a more equitable, safe, and dependable public transport system. For Nairobi’s rapidly growing urban population, the stakes are high, but so is the potential to redefine commuting for the better.
