When discussing the largest Public Service Vehicle (PSV) fleet along the Thika Superhighway, the Neo Kenya Mpya buses are often the first name that comes to mind.
This fleet operates on several routes, including Thika, Makongeni, and Kenol, with plans to expand into additional routes like Kangundo Road.
While many passengers appreciate the affordable fares and reliable services provided by the Kenya Mpya buses, others still view them as a last resort due to the fleet’s history of accidents and ongoing scandals.
Ownership and Business Interests
According to media reports, the entire Neo Kenya Mpya fleet is owned by Embu-based businessman Patrick Njiru and his family.
Njiru, who is related to former Kirinyaga Women’s Representative Purity Ngirici, reportedly holds 500 shares in the fleet, while his wife Leah Njeri Njiru owns 300 shares. Their son, Douglas Kuria Njiru, has 100 shares, and their daughter, Everlyn Wangui Njiru, also owns 100 shares.
Njiru, a seasoned entrepreneur, also owns Paleah Stores and holds shares in For-you Carriers. However, Paleah Stores was embroiled in controversy in 2019 over the sale of contraband sugar.
The sugar, which was allegedly contaminated, was found at the company’s warehouse on Eastern Bypass. The packaging labels suggested it came from Zambia and Brazil. Authorities seized 581 bags of sugar labeled as Brazilian, 49 bags marked as Zambian, along with 238 bales containing 10-2kg packets, 132 bales with 20-1kg packets, and eight bags of unmarked sugar. In addition, 409 bags were purportedly from Nzoia Sugar.
During the investigation, a mixer machine was also recovered. Former DCI boss George Kinoti stated that this machine was being used to mix legitimate sugar with contaminated sugar before it was packaged for sale.
