Transline Classic Ltd is a leading long-distance public service vehicle company in Kenya, renowned for its reliability, comfort, and safety. Established in 2005, the company initially dominated the Nairobi-Kisii route before expanding to other regions. Known for its professionally run 14-seater shuttles, Transline Classic transitioned to buses following a government directive to phase out the shuttles. Today, it boasts a fleet of over 80 buses serving various routes across Kenya.
Founders and Their Backgrounds
1. Evans Nyagaka Anyona
- Early Life and Education:
- Raised by a single mother after his father’s death when he was in class 6.
- Completed his O-levels but could not continue due to financial constraints.
- Career Beginnings:
- In 1992, during a severe drought, Anyona capitalized on food shortages by buying maize at KES 7 per tin and selling it for KES 35.
- Used the proceeds to open a shop, which grew into a wholesale outlet.
- Transport Business:
- Encouraged by his uncle, Anyona bought his first pickup, converting it into a ‘seven aside’ matatu.
- Expanded his fleet to include modern Nissan and Toyota matatus.
- Transline Classic and ENA Coach:
- Conceived the idea for Transline Classic, eventually founding the company.
- Later established the highly successful ENA Coach.
2. James Bichange
- Partnership Formation:
- Joined forces with Evans Nyagaka Anyona to expand the business.
- Contributed his matatus to the cooperative formed to run the company as a unified entity.
- Role in Transline Classic:
- Integral in the growth and management of the company alongside Anyona.
3. Haron Kamau
- Contribution to the Business:
- Brought his matatus into the cooperative, becoming the third partner.
- Played a crucial role in expanding the fleet and operational capacity of Transline Classic.
- Other Ventures:
- Owner of the iconic Kamel Park.
- Founded Overseas Buses, further expanding his footprint in the transport industry.
Expansion and Fleet Growth
- Initial Investment:
- The company purchased its first three buses after securing a loan from Equity Bank.
- Fleet Development:
- By 2012, Transline Classic had a fleet of 24 buses serving the coast and lake region routes.
- By 2018, the fleet had grown to over 80 buses, covering various routes in Kenya.
Services and Operations
Complaints and Challenges:
- Despite its growth, Transline Classic has faced complaints regarding rude staff, discontinued services like bottled water, and non-functional power outlets in buses.
- The company has also been criticized for lagging in technology, lacking online booking options.
Strengths:
- Affordable pricing, making it accessible to most travelers.
- Prioritization of passenger safety, maintaining a strong reputation for reliable and secure travel.
Conclusion
Transline Classic Ltd, founded by Evans Nyagaka Anyona, James Bichange, and Haron Kamau, has grown from humble beginnings to become one of Kenya’s leading long-distance public transport companies. Despite facing some operational challenges, the company’s commitment to reliability, comfort, and safety has helped it maintain a loyal customer base. The founders’ entrepreneurial spirit and strategic partnerships have been key to the company’s success and expansion.
