At the age of 27, Ruth Chelimo has navigated through various roles, each representing a crucial step in her journey to establish a life for herself and her family.
Educational barriers loomed large for Chelimo, compelling her to halt her academic pursuits at form two due to the inability to afford school fees. Undeterred by this setback, she entered the workforce, embracing diverse roles ranging from a house help and construction worker to a waitress and even a tout.
Despite the distinct nature of each occupation, they all bore the unmistakable mark of Chelimo’s resolute determination. Undaunted by the male-dominated landscape, she embraced the challenging matatu business in Eldoret.
Operating proudly on the Eldoret-Huruma route, Chelimo not only challenged gender norms but also stood out as a professional driver, emphasizing cleanliness and adhering to a uniform code during her duties.
In an industry known for its rough and rowdy image, Chelimo found unexpected allies among her male colleagues. Transitioning from a tout to a licensed matatu driver was no easy feat, but her colleagues, including Njogu, her conductor, acknowledged her exceptional focus and commitment.
Njogu, the conductor of the matatu she drives, remarked, “She came here as a tout, but she has been able to be licensed as a driver ahead of me because of rare focus and commitment to achieving her desires in whatever she does.”
Chelimo’s daily routine begins at 5 pm and concludes around 10 pm. Despite facing challenges from passengers, it is her male colleagues who provide steadfast support, defying stereotypes associated with the matatu industry.
However, Chelimo’s reality is not without its difficulties. The primary challenges come from passengers themselves, rather than the male-dominated industry. Instances of passengers attempting to send fares directly to her personal phone number, bypassing the provided till number, underscore the unwarranted advances she endures. Moreover, some passengers insist on sitting next to her in the front seat, engaging in inappropriate behavior by touching her.
