Eldoret Express, a household name in Kenya’s transport sector, began its operations in 1982 with a fleet of Nissan UD buses. The company later registered as Eldoret Express Cooperative Company in 1985, marking its official entry into the structured public transport industry.
The Vision Behind Eldoret Express
The brainchild of Mr. Wainaina, the company was founded on the vision of filling a gap in Kenya’s growing transport sector. Recognizing an opportunity to connect major towns, he branded the buses as Eldoret Express. The fleet initially featured Isuzu and Scania buses, fitted with locally made bodies from Kenyan body fabricators. These buses were renowned for their design and comfort, which aimed to meet customer satisfaction.
Services and Key Routes
EldoretExpress wasn’t just about passenger transport. The company also offered parcel transfer services, providing a reliable and affordable means of sending goods across its destinations.
The company’s buses dominated several popular routes, including:
- Nairobi – Nakuru – Kericho – Kisumu – Kakamega – Mumias – Nambale
These routes connected urban and rural centers, fostering accessibility and convenience for passengers and parcel deliveries alike.
During the era of the KAM number plates, Eldoret Express showcased its growth by operating over 25 buses, primarily Isuzu models. Among the fleet were two standout Scania F93 buses famously known as Duke and Duchess, which became iconic symbols of the company’s glory days.
Challenges of Growth and Decline
Eldoret Express experienced rapid growth, which unfortunately became its Achilles’ heel. The company’s ambition led to over-expansion and inadequate resource allocation. A significant misstep was focusing on hiring more drivers to increase the number of trips while neglecting the need for sufficient mechanics to maintain the growing fleet.
With time, mechanical issues plagued the buses. The lack of regular maintenance led to breakdowns, rendering many vehicles inoperable. As the fleet deteriorated, customer confidence waned, and the company’s once-thriving operations began to falter.
Legacy and Lessons
Eldoret Express remains a key part of Kenya’s transport history, remembered for its ambitious rise and eventual challenges. It highlights the critical need for balance in business growth—ensuring operational efficiency matches expansion plans. For many Kenyans, the sight of an Eldoret Express bus recalls an era when travel was synonymous with reliability and comfort.
While the company faced setbacks, its story serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of sustainable growth, sound management, and investment in maintenance for long-term success.