Nairobi’s streets were filled with thousands of commuters on foot this Monday and Tuesday. The city is currently facing a transport crisis as a matatu strike enters its second day.
With public service vehicles off the road, many residents have been forced to walk long distances to reach their workplaces.
A Viral Observation
Amidst the chaos, photographer and digital creator Baba Talisha sparked a massive online conversation. He claimed that the millennial generation is uniquely determined to keep working regardless of the circumstances.
"Millinials would rather walk from Thika, than miss a single day of work," he posted on social media.
The distance from Thika to the Nairobi Central Business District is approximately 45 kilometres. The suggestion that workers would trek such a distance just to avoid an absence has elicited a wide range of reactions from the public.
The Weight of Responsibility
For many, the motivation to walk is not about loyalty to an employer, but rather a matter of survival.
@Carol Isaac responded to the post, stating that they do not want to get fired because they have "gen zs n alpha to feed."
@Koja Dickson echoed this sentiment, noting that workers must report to duty because the "stomach doesn't recognize that there was protests."
Other users suggested that this work ethic is deeply ingrained. @Lilian Moraa commented that this is "where they have positioned their lives." @Ann Veronicah simply added, "Wueh that's us With no apology."
"Not Shaken Easily"
Some commuters viewed the long trek as a testament to their upbringing and resilience. @Josy Nyox pointed out that many millennials grew up walking to school in the morning and evening. Because of this background, they "can't be shaken easily."
"We're really hustler," added @Jacky Nyadadi.
There were even those who found a silver lining in the situation. @Styvestrine Rey remarked that the long walk is "healthy though," despite the difficulty.
However, the physical toll is real. @Joki Ndungu joked that by nightfall, many houses in Nairobi would be "smelling Kaluma," a popular muscle rub used to soothe aching limbs.
A Divided Response
Not everyone agreed with the "hustle" narrative. Some users questioned the logic of risking so much for a job. @Candice Wanja noted that people "risk n the salary remains the same.
@Maripas De Keit observed that some employees act as if "the companies belongs to them."
Others have chosen a different path during the strike. @Adalyn Misoi stated she was "unapologetically absent for work today." Meanwhile, @Salome Ngendo expressed gratitude for modern technology, noting, "Thank God we can also work online nowadays.”
The Reality of the Strike
The ongoing strike has highlighted the vulnerability of Nairobi’s workforce. While some, like @Wangui Wambui, are not millennials but still joined the trek, the consensus is that the situation is far from ideal.
@Kamau Shiks summed up the mood of many by stating, "Its not funny though."
As the strike continues, the debate over work-life balance and economic necessity remains at the forefront of the city's conversation. @Sussie Daniel perhaps put it best: "Yes..we have walked ...bt it's not easy."
