Super Metro Sacco has earned a reputation as Nairobi’s most disciplined matatu fleet in a public transport sector often marked by chaos. This success can be attributed to the visionary leadership that has driven the Sacco’s impressive growth.
With a large portion of Nairobi and its metropolitan areas relying on public transportation, Super Metro has won the favor of many, becoming a role model for other Saccos to follow. Since its founding in 2013, the Sacco has expanded its reach to various routes.
It’s common to see popular Super Metro matatus, such as Kabuku, Vine, and Komat’su, proudly display their names, making them instantly recognizable on the streets.
In a past interview, one of Super Metro’s co-founders, known by the nickname Komat’su, shared insights into the Sacco’s origins, growth, and the investment opportunities it offers in the matatu business.
Komat’su revealed that he became involved with Super Metro in 2013 after parting ways with Metro. At that time, there were just 14 investors. He joined with one vehicle, a KCC-registered matatu, using savings he had accumulated from working in the construction industry.
He explained that he initially operated Komat’su tractors in the construction sector, which generated enough income to allow him to invest in his first matatu. Today, he manages a fleet of matatus and continues his involvement in the tractor business.
Komat’su also shared that he plays an active role in the management of Super Metro, which has now grown from 14 to over 300 investors. He believes that investing in the matatu business through Super Metro has been one of his best financial decisions, as the Sacco’s strict policies and regulations have made it a safer investment compared to the often risky nature of the matatu industry.
He owns nearly 20 Komat’su buses, making him the second-largest vehicle owner in the Sacco, behind Chairman Nelson Mwangi, who is credited with overseeing the iconic Kabuku fleet.
“The name Komat’su comes from the large tractor that we used to start our construction business. That’s where the funds to purchase the matatu came from,” he explained.
Komat’su also emphasized that with an investment of between Sh. 800,000 and Sh. 1 million, anyone who meets the Sacco’s requirements can become an investor. The Sacco’s management takes care of all the logistics, including vehicle sourcing, licensing, and even financing the vehicle through a partial loan.
According to Komat’su, each matatu has the potential to generate up to Sh. 10,000 daily, or approximately Sh. 300,000 per month. With careful financial management, it’s possible to repay the loan in a few years and even purchase additional matatus.
“We save around Sh. 2,000 daily within the Sacco. Over a month, that totals to Sh. 60,000. In 10 months, you’ll have Sh. 600,000, which can be used for a loan to acquire another matatu while the first one pays for itself,” he said.
He also highlighted the Sacco’s focus on employee empowerment. One of his bus drivers, for example, saved a portion of his salary daily, even if it was just Sh. 500. Over time, these savings accumulated, and after 2-3 years, the driver had enough to purchase his own Super Metro matatu.
Popular routes for Super Metro include Juja, Kikuyu, and Kitengela, with the Sacco continuously expanding its fleet to meet the growing demand from its loyal customers, who are often seen waiting in line for a ride.
