Thousands of Nairobi commuters spent Monday and Tuesday trekking across the city as the ongoing matatu strike pushed the transport crisis into its second day.
With many public service vehicles remaining off the roads, frustrated residents were left with little choice but to walk long distances to work, school, and business centres across the capital.
Baba Talisha Sparks Online Debate
Amid the disruption, Kenyan photographer and digital creator Baba Talisha ignited widespread discussion online after sharing his thoughts on the resilience of millennials during difficult situations.
According to Baba Talisha, many millennials would rather endure exhausting journeys than miss work.
“Millennials would rather walk from Thika than miss a single day of work,” he posted on social media.
His statement quickly went viral, with many Kenyans reacting to the comparison. The journey from Thika to Nairobi’s Central Business District stretches roughly 45 kilometres, making the remark both humorous and relatable for many commuters caught in the transport paralysis.
Survival Over Comfort
For several Kenyans, reporting to work despite the crisis was less about dedication to employers and more about economic survival.
One social media user, identified as Carol Isaac, explained that missing work was not an option because many people have families depending on them.
“I don’t want to get fired because I have Gen Zs and Alpha to feed,” she wrote.
Another user, Koja Dickson, noted that financial responsibilities do not pause because of demonstrations or transport disruptions.
“The stomach doesn’t recognize that there were protests,” he commented.
Others argued that the determination displayed by millennials comes from years of adapting to hardship and responsibility.
“Not Easily Shaken”
Some online users described the situation as proof of the resilience many millennials developed growing up.
Josy Nyox pointed out that many people from the generation were accustomed to walking long distances to school during childhood, making them more mentally prepared for such challenges.
“Most millennials grew up walking to school morning and evening, so they can’t be shaken easily,” the user observed.
Another commenter, Lilian Moraa, suggested that the relentless work culture has become deeply embedded in the generation’s lifestyle, while Ann Veronicah simply summed it up by saying: “Wueh, that’s us, with no apology.”

