Peris Njeri, an assistant manager at Uchumi 44 Sacco (popularly known for their pimped nganyas), has been at the centre of activity on the bustling stage next to Shik Park for the past seven years.

Her petite physique might give the impression that she is easily intimidated, but a few minutes into our interview it is clear that she leads with a kind and firm hand, dedicated to ensuring smooth relations between passengers and matatu operators, and maintaining order among the drivers at Uchumi 44 Sacco.

To understand what inspired her to join an industry that many women shy away from, Njeri says it all started when she was 27 years of old when she developed a passion for working in the transport industry.

On stage, many praise her for being a caring person who is always willing to lend a hand. You'll often see her helping the elderly and pregnant women secure a seat, especially during rush hour when only the fastest and fittest seem to get a seat on a matatu.

Peris Njeri with a tout who works at Uchumi 44, showing him the route he will take next on his notebook on March 8, 2024.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

This act of kindness has earned her the admiration of both drivers and passengers.

"I feel good when I see a customer boarding a matatu and being treated well," she says.

But her work goes beyond customer service. She also supervises the matatu routes, ensuring order on the road. She co-ordinates where each matatu runs, including routes such as Mawanga, JB, White House and Bismark.

Her firm but fair approach has earned her respect, and male drivers often consult her on work-related matters.

Peris Njeri interacting with a matatu driver at the stage.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

"My working tools are a pen and a notebook. I write down which matatu is on which route and in which order. This helps to maintain order on the route. Without this system, each driver would want to choose his or her preferred route at his or her own time, which could lead to chaos. I also collect the stage fee from the drivers," she explains.

Her day starts at 8am, with the busiest hours being the morning rush and the evening peak from around 5pm.

"I always wanted to work in this industry and when the opportunity came, I didn't hesitate, I grabbed it and to this day I have no regrets," she says with a smile.

Matau stage where Peris Njeri works from with the uchumi 44 matatu Sacco.

Photo credit: Purity Kinuthia/Mtaa Wangu

"I don't work alone, I have a team, including my seniors on stage. We always say: usikose abiria kwa sababu tunawahitaji na tusiwaongeleshe vibaya. We also correct drivers when necessary," she notes.

Njeri is one of the brave women who have stepped into the male-dominated matatu industry, owning the fabric that is this space and with confidence, celebrating each day as it comes.

The Uchumi 44 sacco stage manager with a heart for helping the elderly and pregnant passengers

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Purity Kinuthia