In a recent interview with Ghetto Radio, Lenny, the driver of the newly launched ‘Mood Nganya’, shared the behind-the-scenes story of how George Ruto, President William Ruto’s youngest son, ventured into the Nairobi matatu business.
According to Lenny, the journey began with a long-standing admiration for a flashy matatu known as Matrix Nganya, which eventually inspired George to invest in the industry.
Lenny disclosed that before the birth of Mood Nganya, he was a driver for Matrix Nganya, one of the most stylish and attention-grabbing matatus on the road.
George Ruto, he says, was not only a friend of the Matrix owner but also a huge fan of the matatu culture.
“George used to love Matrix,” Lenny recounted. “He admired its style, its vibe, the music system—it was more than just a matatu to him.”
Driven by passion and opportunity, George one day approached his friend—the then-owner of Matrix Nganya—and decided to purchase it.
Lenny says the transition was smooth and surprising. “George just told me, ‘We’ve bought the mat,’ and that I should continue driving it. There was no interview, no conditions. Just trust.”
This moment marked the beginning of George Ruto’s footprint in the public transport industry.
With Lenny still at the wheel, the matatu continued operating as usual, but now under new ownership.
The success of that move later paved the way for a bigger project—‘Mood Nganya’, a fresh and vibrant matatu that was officially launched at KICC in Nairobi recently.
The launch of Mood Nganya at KICC drew attention from matatu lovers and urban culture enthusiasts alike.
With its custom lighting, bold graffiti art, and thundering sound system, the matatu reflects both style and substance.
Lenny noted that the vehicle’s unique branding has helped attract loyal passengers and made it one of the most talked-about rides in the city.
Lenny described the business as not just profitable but also deeply rooted in Nairobi’s street culture.
“On a good day, a matatu like Mood can bring in up to Ksh100,000,” he said.
“People think it’s just driving, but it’s about presentation, experience, and maintaining the brand.”
He added that George Ruto has remained hands-on and supportive, always trusting the team behind the scenes.
“He believes in people, and that’s why many of us respect him. He didn’t come in to replace anyone, but to grow with the culture.”
As Mood Nganya continues to light up Nairobi’s routes, Lenny’s story is a reflection of how passion, loyalty, and streetwise entrepreneurship can collide to create something truly iconic.
by sheila chelangat
