%T Integrating Matatus in Nairobi’s public transport future:  a study investigating how to include informal transport to Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Projects
%L theses_frw4734
%X This research focuses on Nairobi's public transport which consists of an informal matatu network and planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. Despite their essential role in Nairobi's transport and urban culture, matatus are not integrated into formal transport planning. This is also evident in the planning for the new BRT project. Current literature suggests there is a knowledge gap in understanding transport planning in relation to informal transport. Hence, the aim of the study is to investigate how to plan and design an integrative and inclusive public transport that blends existing informal transport networks to future formal transport networks in Nairobi. This was done through applying the Institutional Analysis Development framework to operationalise the case studies.

Through a literature review and document analysis, the historical context of matatus and  their role in Nairobi's transport, and the BRT project was analysed. Semi-structured interviews with identified key stakeholders were carried out to further investigate the role of matatus. The future role of matatus will be in providing feeder lines for the BRT and current operators have been invited to form the BRT operating company. The biggest hurdles for BRT implementation was identified in acceptance from current operators which aimed to be mitigated through inclusion in the governance of BRT. Analysing the Rea Vaya BRT in Johannesburg, the Lagos BRT and the Dar Es Salaam BRT Rapid projects provided lessons, policy recommendations and conditions of institutional design to be applied to Nairobi.  As a recommendation, Nairobi transport planners should develop clear institutional arrangements,  paratransit strategies and active stakeholder engagement with paratransit operators and the public.
%A O.W.E Kindt
%D 2024