Public service vehicle operators in Kibera on Thursday welcomed the proposal to have drivers and conductors paid regular salaries.
The proposal announced by Matatu Owners Association chairman Samuel Kimutai is aimed at ensuring PSV drivers and conductors get standard salaries to enable them pay income taxes and also contribute to the National Social Security Fund and the National Hospital Insurance Fund.
The idea was received well by drivers and conductors working under various Saccos in Kibera, with many saying it will transform their lives economically considering the many challenges they undergo regarding wages.
“It is one of the best ideas because as matatu operators, we face problems when it comes to payment because we depend on daily extra collections from bus fares. In most cases, the vehicle owners demand a specific amount as returns each day and we have to struggle to hit the target before we begin hustling for our own,” said Geoffrey Amale, a driver with Kibera-Bureti Sacco.
Amale who spoke to this reporter on Thursday added that in most cases, they carry nothing home especially when they don’t meet the set target on time.
“Sometimes we work and go home with nothing especially when we fail to meet the target set by the owners who in most cases want us to pay ourselves with extras,” he said.
Kiragi Sacco drivers have also supported the idea saying it would give an assurance to operators of monthly pay as opposed to how it is currently.
“If they implement the idea then it would be good because at least we can be treated like other workers who have off days, sick days and other benefits,” said Jack Seda, a driver with Kiragi Sacco.
The agreement which was made between the Matatu Owners Association and the International Labour Organisation is highly anticipated by the matatu sector which commands a relatively bigger percentage in terms of job creation in Kenya.