Resolving the Mwembe Tayari Parking Dispute: A Collaborative Approach by Mombasa and Taita Taveta Counties

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Mombasa and Taita Taveta counties have reached an agreement to resolve the longstanding parking space dispute at Mwembe Tayari. Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators will continue to manage their designated parking slots in Mombasa as officials from both counties work collaboratively to address the issues that have persisted for years.
To facilitate this, the counties will establish a joint task force tasked with engaging the members overseeing the disputed stage and developing proposals for a sustainable solution. This task force has been given seven days to report its recommendations on managing the parking area and preventing further conflicts among matatu operators from both regions.
During a meeting on Tuesday, Mombasa’s Executive for Transport, Daniel Manyola, emphasized the urgency of resolving these disputes that threaten the operations of matatus at the Kobil stage. He affirmed the county government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for the transport sector. “The report should adhere to legal standards and prioritize the interests of matatu operators over brokers. This stalemate must end to ensure the smooth operation of Public Service Vehicles,” he stated.
Taita Taveta’s Executive, Martin Tairo, echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the county government’s support for the matatu industry. He encouraged operators to engage with the Matatu Operators Association, highlighting its role as a unifying force. “Embracing the association will help operators achieve its objectives and promote economic growth,” Tairo noted.
He also assured operators that the government would assist in resolving outstanding issues affecting their operations to enhance economic performance, urging them to maintain lawful and respectful conduct in their duties.
Taita Taveta matatu operators, who have traditionally used the Mwembe Tayari parking area, are seeking official designation from Mombasa County for this space as their primary passenger loading and unloading site. Bigvai Mwailemi, chairman of the Taita Taveta County Matatu Operators Association, praised the joint meeting, expressing optimism that it would effectively resolve the stalemate. He highlighted the negative impact of the parking dispute on their operations in Mombasa, noting that many vehicles currently lack adequate space for loading and offloading. Mwailemi expressed hope that the collaborative efforts will ultimately settle the contention over parking space.