Naomi Mwaura: A feminist reimagining of Kenya's public transport

A feminist reimagining of Kenya's public transport

Kenya's minibuses -- known as "matatus" -- offer a convenient, affordable and colorful way for people to get around. But they also pose safety risks and accessibility issues for many of their passengers, especially women. Bringing a feminist perspective, activist and TED Fellow Naomi Mwaura calls for a revolution in public transportation by making routes transparent, protecting passengers from harassment and paving a career path for women in the industry.

Kenya’s vibrant matatu minibuses are essential for millions but often unsafe and inaccessible, especially for women. With 88 percent of Kenyan women reporting harassment while using public transportation, travel becomes riskier and more expensive for them. Instead of scrapping the system, targeted reforms like transparent routes, anti-harassment policies, and more women in the industry are transforming public transit. Building safer, more inclusive transit networks empowers communities and protects livelihoods.