Newcomers to the bustling city of Nairobi are often told to memorize key landmarks to help them navigate the city’s busy streets. One such landmark is the OTC area on Ronald Ngala Street in the CBD, a lively hub of commerce marked by bus stations with vehicles connecting various parts of the Nairobi metropolis.

OTC has been a historical landmark for decades, but as life moves forward, its history gradually fades, leaving newer generations unaware of the full meaning behind the OTC abbreviation, the story of its name, and the origins of the street’s infamous title.

A widely shared anecdote often resurfaces, with many believing that OTC stands for the phrase Onyango Twende Choo, which loosely translates to Onyango, let’s go to the toilet. Others suggest it stands for Onyango Twende Coast, implying the same request, but with the destination changing to the Coast.

What many don’t realize is that OTC actually stands for Overseas Trading Company—a London-based firm that imported 13 buses to Kenya in 1934.

In the 1930s, while Kenya was still under colonial rule, public transport was a relatively new idea. Recognizing this opportunity, the UK-based company introduced 12 buses to operate on different routes across the country, even transporting passengers to distant locations like Kampala, Uganda.

Although trains were the preferred choice for long-distance travel at the time, the introduction of buses captivated many Kenyans. Those curious to experience this new mode of transport eagerly seized the opportunity, boarding the long white buses to reach their desired destinations.

Over time, OTC buses gained widespread popularity and became a well-known name throughout the East African Community (EAC) region. The company also broadened its services to include courier deliveries, transporting goods to areas outside the city.

After establishing its presence in Kenya, the London-based company set up a stage on Duke Street, which was later renamed Ronald Ngala Street. This location rapidly gained popularity, and travelers began associating it with the OTC brand, eventually becoming widely known as the OTC Bus Stage.

As OTC continued to grow, other investors were drawn to the expanding transport sector, leading to the establishment of additional companies like the Tom Mboya Bus Company, founded by former Labour Minister Tom Mboya.

OTC buses later teamed up with the Kenya Bus Service (KBS) to offer a broader selection of travel routes. KBS became well-regarded among Kenyans, managing a fleet of 300 buses. However, by the 1990s, the company struggled and eventually sold its fleet to other entities.

Though the OTC Company ceased operations, its legacy endured, with the stage still retaining the OTC name to this day.

The area has transformed over the years with various developments, including the Wholesale Mall. During its decade-long period of incomplete construction and green netting, the mall became a landmark and a notable reference point for newcomers in the city.

In a statement released on their Facebook page, Ena Coach expressed their excitement over this historic milestone.

“We are thrilled to announce a historic milestone as we welcome our very first female driver, Beatrice. Beatrice joins our team with exceptional skills and a passion for driving that inspires us all. Her dedication and expertise are a testament to our commitment to diversity and excellence in our exemplary services,” the statement read.

Ena Coach encouraged everyone to extend a warm welcome to Beatrice and show their support as she embarks on her first journey to Kisii.

Accompanying her on this inaugural trip is Alice Rakayana, another esteemed team member.

“Welcome aboard, Captain Beatrice, and all the best on your first trip to Kisii,” Ena Coach added.

How It Started

The company, headquartered in Kisii with offices and a fancy booking office in KTDA, Nairobi, was founded in 2008. Initially, Ena operated under the umbrella of another leading transport services provider, Transline Classic.

In 2018, the owners decided to branch out and officially started operating as Ena Coach in November of that year. Since then, Ena Coach has built a reputation on the country’s roads, operating a large fleet of buses.

Leadership and Operations

Richard Mogire, who has been with the company since its inception, is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Ena Investments Ltd. He became CEO when Ena branched out from Transline Classic.

Ena Coach operates primarily along several major routes, including Kisii-Nairobi, Sirare-Kisii-Nairobi, Migori-Kisii-Nairobi, Kisumu-Nairobi, Kisumu-Nakuru-Nairobi, Kisii-Nairobi-Mombasa, Kisumu-Mombasa, Nairobi-Mombasa, Busia-Nairobi, and Busia-Nairobi-Mombasa.

Booking

Bookings can be made online through their web portal or physically at their booking offices. Ena Coach’s offices are located in various towns, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Sirare, Kehancha, Kisii, Oyugis, Sotik, Narok, Kijauri, Keroka, Nyachenge, Rongo, Awendo, Rodi Kopany, and Sori.

Crown Bus Service is arguably one of the best long distance passenger and parcel transportation companies in Kenya. According to their Linkedin account, the company was founded in 2004 but started operations in August 2006. 

The company has maintained high levels of professionalism, growing from the Nairobi-Mombasa route to cover over 20 routes in Kenya and Uganda. 

Their image was squeaky clean until the US’ Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)  linked the company to the terror group al-Shabaab. 

The bus company is among the 16 entities and individuals across the horn of Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Cyprus who have been sanctioned for their links with the al-Shabaab.

Ownership of the bus company

According to the Daily Nation, Crown Bus is owned by Mr Mohamed Jumale Ali Awali. He is accused of supporting al-Shabaab logistical operations. 

The businessman is said to have close ties to Faysal Yusuf Dini who has been listed by the US as one of those involved in the raising and laundering of millions of dollars through multiple businesses for the terror group. 

A statement from OFAC read in part, 

“He also works closely with Kenya-based Mohamed Jumale Ali Awale to plan investment projects and money laundering activities. This includes managing al-Shabaab funds laundered through investment companies”

Mr Mohamed is among those the US has sanctioned for allegedly funding the al-Shabaab terrorist group to the tune of Ksh14 billion (approximately $100 million) annually. 

Office

Its head office is located in Lagos House, along Monrovia Street, Nairobi.

Routes

The bus company plies in the following routes

•    Nairobi
•    Mombasa
•    Malaba
•    Nakuru
•    Chavakali
•    Eldoret
•    Kakamega
•    Kapsaet
•    Chavakali
•    Mbale (Uguanda)
•    Mbale (Kenya)
•    Kisumu
•    Bungoma
•    Webuye
•    Ugunja
•    Mumias
•    Busia
•    Kampala

His journey has been an interesting one. George Kinyanjui Ng’ang’a, popularly known as Mengo, started as mechanic in Matunda town where he was also born. 

According to Jerome Ogola, the trained mechanic went on to open an auto-spare shop in the same town. 

It was not until the 90s that he ventured into the highly competitive matatu business. In the Facebook post shared by Ogola, the businessman’s first matatu was a white Peugeot 504 bearing the registration number KAJ. 

Ronaldo, as the matatu was christened, had a conductor known as Sauti Mbaya and a second one known as General Defao. 

“His first matatu a KAJ, white Peugeot 504, christened Ronaldo, came in the late 1990s. I remember the conductor was guy called Sauti Mbaya (RIP), followed by another one known  as General Defao, this one was light blue in colour”, Ogola’s Post read in part. 

First Matatu Plying Eldoret-Kitale Route

The popular Facebook user went on to add that George Kinyanjui was the first person from the area to buy a Toyota Hiace ‘Shark’ plying the Eldoret-Kitale route. 

Matatu went by the name Tisho, then followed by Kipembe, Komesha and Covenant-in that order. 

The story goes that he closed his transport business after the 2008 post elections violence without notifying anyone. 

“Drivers who woke up to take the vehicles were shocked to learn that the owner had other ideas”, Ogola wrote. 

Climax Buses

The businessman reportedly sold all his matatus and opened a supermarket in Matunda. He went on to venture into the transport business by founding Climax Buses.

The climax has now over 100 buses plying most of the Western Kenya routes.

Ena Coach

Ksh1,600

Nairobi Kisumu – Bondo -Usenge

-Siaya-Nyadorera

-Maseno -Luanda -Busia

-Mbale – Kakamega Bungoma

-Bumala – Funyula Port Victoria

Nairobi Kapasabet Kakamega Nambale Busia

Ksh1500

Nairobi Kisii – Mbita

-Sori

-Homabay

-Sirare

-Kehancha

-Oyugis – Kendubay

-Chepilat Nyamira Kadongo Sondu Kendubay 

Ksh2500

Mombasa Nairobi – Kisii – Kendubay

-Mbita

-Sori

– Migori – Kehancha

Mombasa Kisumu Bondo Siaya Nyadorera Port Victoria

Postliner Fare

Ksh1,600

Kisumu, Busia from Nairobi

The Guardian Angel Coach

Ksh1,650

Nairobi to Busia

Nairobi to Kakamega

Nairobi to Kisumu

Nairobi to Ugunja

Nairobi to Maseno

Nairobi to Kericho

Nairobi to Busia

Nairobi to Siaya

Nairobi to Bondo

Ksh1400

Nairobi to Kisii

Nairobi to Migori

Nairobi to Homabay

Nairobi to Oyugis

Nairobi to Awendo

Nairobi to Rodi

Nairobi to Kijauri

Nairobi to Sirare

Easy Coach 

Ksh1750

Nairobi to Kisumu 

Nairobi to Usenge

Nairobi to Bondo

Nairobi to Siaya

Nairobi to Malaba

Nairobi to Maseno

Nairobi to Bungoma

Nairobi to Butere

Ksh1800

Nairobi to Bumula

Nairobi to Ugunja

Ksh1450

Nairobi to Kaimosi 

Nairobi to Ndhiwa

Nairobi to Sirare

Nairobi to Awendo

Nairobi to Kapsabet 

Nairobi to Migori

Ksh1350

Nairobi to Oyugis

Ksh1650

Nairobi to Moi’s Bridge 

Nairobi to Mumias

Nairobi to Webuye

Nairobi to Kakamega

Ksh1250

Nairobi to Kisii

Ksh1400

Nairobi to Homabay

Nairobi to Mbita

Ksh1500

Nairobi to Kericho

Ksh1700

Nairobi to Kitale

Nairobi to Busia

Ksh1150

Nairobi to Keroka

Ksh1550

Nairobi to Eldoret

Crackdown on PSVs

Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered a crackdown on private vehicles that have been operating as Public Service Vehicles (PSVs).

“I have this afternoon (Thursday) directed National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) in collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS) to conduct a nationwide crackdown on illegal Public Transport Vehicles (PSVs) with immediate effect,” CS said during the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) Delegates Council Meeting at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

Interestingly, the buses, Christened Postliner, were first introduced by Masters Fabricators Ltd on their Facebook page on 1 May 2015. 

The buses at the time looked classy and could easily outcompete the likes of Easy Coach. 

Postal Corporation of Kenya (PCK) seemingly decided to go slow on the operations of the buses until recently when they announced they will be on the western route. 

At the time, the then PCK CEO Dr. Enock Kinara said of the decision to branch out,

“We are still waiting for approval from the Ministry of Transport and the NTSA, in fact the wait is what has delayed the commencement of our passenger service,”.

He went on to add that the buses would only carry 42 passengers and the remaining space would be reserved for parcels.

“The 62-seater buses will only carry 42 passengers and the remaining space will be left for parcels to maximise on the investment and reduce the cost of doing business.”

The buses they unveiled are Scania. 

Postliner Fare

Transport to Kisumu and Busia from Nairobi is a standard Ksh1,600. Only cash payments are accepted. 

How to book Postiner

Booking is at their City Square office where passengers also board the bus. Only one bus leaves from Nairobi at 8 PM. That is the only available bus.

Here is what the company shared,

Traveling to the village this weekend on the Nairobi-Kisumu- Busia route?

Enjoy affordable and convenient commuter services from Post liner.

Book now!!! Mapema ndio best. 

To get in touch with us call: 0725933846 or visit our City Square office to board the bus.

Other services offered by PCK

PCK was established by an Act Of Parliament (PCK Act 1998) as a commercial public enterprise. According to the PCK website, their mandate includes “provision of accessible, affordable and reliable postal services to all parts of Kenya”. 

Mail items can be sent to over 600 Post offices in Kenya.

The Kenya Premier League is arguably the most competitive league in the country.

From just a normal village league, it has risen to glory after glory, thanks to significant investments by various stakeholders.  

In matters of transport, Kenya Premier League teams are inceasingly investing in modern vehicles.

These are not only a superb means of travel to and from matches but also a way of attracting a wide fanbase. 

In this article, WoK takes a look at KPL teams with the best and most expensive buses:

Gor Mahia FC

Recently, the CS for the Ministry of Communication, Information, and Digital Technology, Dr. Eliud Owalo, donated to Gor Mahia FC a sh 23 Million 42-seater Isuzu bus, which was unveiled at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. 

The customized FVR 90 Isuzu machine is painted in the Club’s green colors. It is already registered with the National Transport Authority as KDN 068 N. 

The bus has onboard Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a state-of-the-art music system, foldable TVs, USB charging ports, and two sets of VIP seats to offer prime comfort over long-distance travel. 

Gor Mahia’s previous bus, which had been renovated at a cost of sh 250 000, was auctioned over a sh 1.7 million debt the club owed their former defender Wellington Occhieng, who played for the team between 2016 and 2017. 

Kakamega Home Boyz FC

In June 2020, Kakamega Homeboyz became the proud owners of a new bus, which was quickly branded by their supporters as the coolest bus in the league. 

According to then club chairman Cleophas Shimanyula, the bus was bought at a whopping sh 18 million. At the time, he bragged that no other KPL team could own such a bus.

According to him, sitting on the bus was like traveling in a tour vehicle, you can’t feel any movement in your seat even on a rough road – he told Nairobi News. 

Shimanyula added that the bus was just a motivational sweet for the team and that more goodies were on their way if they won the league. The team is sponsored by the county government of Kakamega. 

Wazito FC

In 2018,  a Dubai-based investor by the name of Ricardo Badoer bought a controlling stake in Wazito FC. 

From the get-go, he hit the ground rolling by vowing to transform Wazito into a world-class team. 

He started by gifting the players word-class jerseys. Recently, he opened his wallet even further by rewarding the team with a sh 12 million ultra-modern Mercedes Benz bus. 

He said that the sleek, 45 seater bus, which was unveiled at the Windsor Hotel in Nairobi,  would be used to transport the players to and from fixtures and training. 

Ricardo also owns CD Ursaria club in Spain and is also the owner of Sumac Bank and Madgoat TV. 

AFC Leopards

In March 2020, the AFC Leopards team, led by captain Dan Shikanda, attended an event at State House to receive an ultramodern Scania bus from then-president Uhuru Kenyatta. 

The swanking new luxury bus was bought following a directive from the president, through the sports ministry, to unmire the club from its deep financial crisis at the time. 

According to Standard, the bus, which cost between sh 7 million and sh 13 million, was bought via fundraising efforts led by Dr. Nelson Sechere, an international fundraising expert. 

The bus was acquired from Chinese bus manufacturing company Golden Dragon. 

This acquisition made Ingwe the only team in the country to possess two ultra-modern buses. 

Shabana FC

In October 2020, former President Uhuru Kenyatta gifted Kisii-based Shabana Fc with a brand new 62-seater bus. 

The team had earlier written to the president, requesting for a bus ahead of the Mashujaa Day celebrations.

In the handover event, which was held at Kisii State Lodge, the president donated to the club sh 5 million while ODM leader Raila Odinga donated sh 1 million. 

Earlier this year, Shabana signed a sh 20 million deal with Chinese company Bang Bet, which saw the brand´s name painted on the bus. The 35 players also received three sets of uniforms and tracksuits. 

Nzoia sugar FC

In June 2020, KPL team Nzoia Sugar acquired a new bus worth sh 7 million.

According to Daily Nation, the sleek, 52-seater yellow and black bus was a donation from  Devolution CS Eugine Wamalwa, who had made the promise in 2017.

The club chairman Evans Kadenge said the bus would help the team cut on its travel costs for away matches. He said they would only need to cater for fuel and maintenance costs. 

In the handover ceremony, which took place at State House, former president Uhuru Kenyatta gifted the club Ksh 2 million and pledged further support. 

For those not in the know, the businessman also owns Nyamira Express that caters for the lower end clientele.

Ong’era Moturi was not a greenhorn in the sector as he took over the reigns from his father, Nahashon Ong’era Omote. The family also owns Guardian Hotel, Guardmart Supermarket and Mwamoturi Hardware.

Ong’era Moturi died in 2019 after suffering stroke while receiving treatment at Nairobi Hospital. He left Guardian Angel in the hands of his sons, Julius Mukoya and Rogers Ong’era Moturi. The former serves as the executive director of Guardian Angel.

On the other hand, Rogers has been an influential figure who has ensured the visibility of the ‘Guardian’ brand remains incredible. He has previously helped Shabana FC with their logistics and received a gratitude note through the club’s official accounts.

“Thank you Hon Rogers Ongera Moturi: Business mogul behind Guardian Angel, Nyamira Express and Guardmart supermarkets.”

“Your passion and support truly light up the community. Keep shining and inspiring us all,” the post reads.

The bus company has been adding state of the art machines in the face of competition from their rivals ENA Coach, who split from the popular Transline Bus. Guardian also has 14 seater Toyota Hiace minibuses, which have become very popular with passengers.

Guardian Angel Bus Routes

Kisii
Kisumu
Ugunja
Maseno
Bondo
Nyamira
Migori
Mbale
Kericho
Kakamega
Rongo
Oyugis
Awendo
Sotik
Busia
Narok
Sirare
Bumala
Siaya
Homabay
Keroka
Bungoma, Webuye & Eldoret

Online Booking
This is one of the few bus companies that has embraced technology. Instead of spending valuable time queuing to for pay for your ticket, you simply do it online by visiting theguardian.co.ke then fill your details.

The paybill as provided on their website is 308900.

Guardian Angel Contacts
HEAD OFFICE
-Railways
-River road Opp. BARCLAYS BANK
VIEW PLAZA, GROUND FLOOR
TEL 0722221290
NAIROBI, KENYA
info@theguardiancoach.com
www.theguardiancoach.com

Ticket management – 0718880256
Kisii:0708008015, 0708008001
Rive Road:0703204555
Kisumu:0727544664
Ugunja:0708345642
Maseno:0708345689
Kericho:0727545088
Kakamega:0726915583 Rongo:0708007866
Oyugis:0708007899
Awendo:0708006460
Rodi:0708008044
Kijauri:0708 84617
Busia:0708345640
Narok:0705804791
Sirare:0708008057
Bumula:0708345641 Siaya:0700752852
Bondo:0700752853
Migori:0708007861
Mbale:0726914334
Sotik: Coming Soon
Homabay:0708008050
Keroka: 0708006499, 0708006351

Parcel Services

They offer parcel services at very competitive routes.

Guardian Angel Fares

Fare vary from one destination to the other. Fare, for example, from Nairobi to Eldoret is Ksh 1400. The Kisii route is Ksh 1400 while Kisumu route is Ksh 1650. (Rates as at November 2025)

The company says of their services:

The Guardian Coach Bus Service provides travelers with genuine comfort they deserve;from booking to when the passengers board the bus. Travelers will not need to go all the way to booking offices.They can make a phone call and book.Payment after booking can be done via M-Pesa.

Visit their website for more information Guardian Coach Ltd.

• Eastmatt Supermarket is owned by Kamau Chege
• It was founded in 1990 in Mau Narok 

Eastmatt Supermarket is one of the most successful retailers in Kenya. Unlike Naivas and Quickmart, the family owned supermarket has been slow in opening new branches. Founded in 1990 by Kamau Chege in Mau Narok as Eastleigh Mattresses LTD, it has gone on to open branches across the country. 

Here is what WoK has gathered about this retailer. 

Expansion

Eastmatt became a household name when it took over the space formerly occupied by Tuskys supermarket along Tom Street in Nairobi. 

The retailer is strategic when it comes to scouting for location for its stores. The outlets are near bus termini-to tap the population of people using public transport to commute. 

Branches

In 1994, the supermarket chain opened its first branch in Nairobi Eastleigh Estate. Four years later, the retailer opened another branch along River Road. 

The growth did not stop there. In 2004, they opened store number three at Mfangano street, Nairobi. 

The fourth Supermarket was opened in 2007. It is this year that the supermarket rebranded to ‘Eastmatt’, ‘EAST’ being an acronym for Eastleigh and ‘MATT’ for Mattresses. 

They went on to open the 5th branch in Tala in 2010. A year later, the 6th branch was opened in Mwea. 

In April 2014, Tom Mboya branch became the home of Eastmatt Supermarket and yet another branch in Kajiado town on 11th December 2014.

The 9th branch was opened in Gilgil Town.

Acts of Vandalism

In an unfortunate incident on 12 July (2023) Rioters broke into the Supermarket in Kitengela and carted away goods.

More on the supermarket visit Eastmatt Supermarket

With 19 plus years of experience, she is a visionary leader known for her business acumen and strategic decision-making abilities. 

She is the widow of the late Juja MP George Thuo, who was also the founder of Citi Hoppa. 

Judy Wamaitha Thuo has not only made significant contributions to the business world but has also displayed resilience and determination in the face of personal challenges.

Following the untimely passing of her husband, Judy faced the daunting task of carrying on their shared vision and legacy.

Here is her journey to becoming the MD of Citi Hoppa as told by WoK.

Education

Judy pursued her higher education at Daystar University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.

Her time at Daystar University provided her with a strong foundation in business principles and effective communication.

Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, Judy further honed her skills by studying Logistics Management at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology, enhancing her expertise in the field.

Career in Advertising

Judy’s career journey took off when she entered the advertising industry, working at renowned agencies such as Y&R and SCANAD.

These experiences allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the marketing landscape and refine her skills in strategic planning and client management.

Judy’s dedication and exceptional performance in these roles paved the way for her to assume leadership positions in prominent organizations.

Founding MarketPoint

In 1997, Judy embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by founding MarketPoint in Malawi, an advertising and marketing advisory firm.

With a strategic approach and a client-focused mindset, Judy secured blue-chip clients such as SOBO (Carlsberg), Coca Cola, and Commercial Bank.

Under her leadership, MarketPoint rapidly grew to become the third-largest agency in the country, thanks to her innovative ideas and pioneering efforts in media monitoring.

Establishing Beck & Call Limited

Continuing her entrepreneurial endeavors, Judy established Beck & Call Limited in Nairobi, Kenya. The company focused on the distribution of the largest newspaper and international magazines in the Nairobi North region.

Judy’s visionary leadership and business acumen were instrumental in the success of Beck & Call, positioning the company as a key player in the distribution industry.

Becoming Managing Director of City Hopper Limited

In January 2004, she assumed the role of MD at City Hopper Limited, a position she continues to hold today.

In her position, she oversees the overall operations and strategic direction of the company, leveraging her extensive experience and leadership skills to drive growth and success.

Under her guidance, City Hopper Limited has flourished and solidified its position as a leading company in the transportation industry.

Volunteer Work and Contributions

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Judy Thuo is actively involved in the community and serves on several boards.

She has made significant contributions as a Board Member of the Capital Markets Authority, playing a vital role in its growth and development.

Additionally, Judy serves as a Board Member for CFS Asset Management Limited Kenya and PesaPrint LTD., where she provides valuable insights and strategic guidance.

Skills and Expertise

Judy Thuo possesses a diverse skill set that encompasses board governance, fleet management, and entrepreneurship. Her extensive experience in leading and managing diverse teams, sourcing funding, and making strategic decisions has earned her a solid reputation as a respected business leader in Kenya.