Photos: Crowded city terminals as learners go back to school
On March 21, 2023, as learners returned to school following their midterm break, city terminals in Nairobi were packed with people.
However, a majority of students, particularly those residing in Nairobi, did not report to school due to safety concerns.
This was because businesses had come to a standstill as a result of mass action protests staged by Azimio la Umoja coalition leaders and their supporters.
Also read: Viral clip of GSU consoling crying Maandamano protester after arrest
Many parents and students expressed dissatisfaction with the exorbitant bus fares being charged by matatu operators. These operators were taking advantage of the situation and charging passengers up to three times the usual rates.

Also read: Sakaja: Protesters filmed vandalising city infrastructure to face charges
Catherine, also known as Mama Munene, a mother of two students at St. Augustine Mwea Boys High School, spoke to Nairobi News and expressed her concerns about the inflated fares. She normally pays Ksh 250 from Nairobi to Mwea, but now she is being charged Ksh 1,000, which is way beyond her budget.
The first term is expected to end on April 22, 2023, when schools will close for a two-week-long holiday.

Also read: The cost of Azimio protests: Nairobi revenue collection falls by half