I fully agree with tmatekwa. I have been in the biz for about four years and I can not complain about how I am doing. I ventured into the business to ensure that I had a source of income in case I was retrenched which was quite common in the place where I work. When starting,one can experience very expensive lessons including unscrupulous financiers,crew,mechanics,police etc. With experience,however,the returns can be quite handsome. To me the mat biz is just like many other businesses.


kn

What are you willing to risk?

If you are cautious go for the older nissan. However note that u may sumbuka due to frequent breakdowns. But tis a lower risk while you learn the ropes.

A newer model should give less stress when it comes to repairs hence more value. It costs more than twice the price of the older vehicle... a higher risk,just make sure you take insure comprehensively!

Avoid the shark,unless you are planning to operate on long distance or medium distances. It's spares are very expensive. Avoid kaz. This is a thing that is about to clock 2years,a time when overhaul of major systems is due. It will chew some 100k in the next 12 months,and this is on the lower end. To add salt to injury you will be lucky to dispose it at 600k come same time next year. As for the kap just make sure that the chassis is still intact. Ie no welding no bends no cracks. Be prepared to overhaul front suspension,engine,transmission,electrical and brakeing,engine cooling systems,reinforce the floor and front bumper. Get good body work and interior decor. A music system without the bass speaker.(you may install it latter after knowing your way around.). A video system,some fancy wheels,then viola! You are ready for business. Your 150k may be inadequate. So push a harder bargain,like 120k to 150k. Give them a target of 3k daily. Operate the thing for 12 months and dispose at 300k o.n.o. Best town routes 105,30,12,33 well organised. Most chaotic 46,2,111,8,4,56,and any other route dominated by touts and kissi. Most lucrative 125,102,2,111,110,and any other route not dominated by citi hopper. Most dangerous routes 23,2,102,and any route controlled by mungiki. Frequent hijackings,strikes. The golden rule. MATATU CREWS ONLY HAVE EXPERIENCE ON ONE OR TWO ROUTES. SO DO NOT ATTEMPT TO EXPORT OR IMPORT ANY.

Osama bin Laden

You being a novice in the game,you are likely to be taken advantage of by mechanics and brokers. On my part 200k may do. However,you need the help of a mechanic to evaluate what you intend to buy. I suggest that you go for a ready made thing,with the same amount.

Osama bin Laden

i tend to think the reason that most matatu dont do well its coz they are not run proffesionally like other biz,take for instance the buses companies that ply the western route they make alot of money per day especially on festive season and weekends but coz of mismanagement after some years they are no where to be found



kigee