Mavela: George Ruto's Crew Mourns Much-Loved Umoja Conductor Run Over by Matatu
- The matatu industry is mourning the sudden loss of Mavela, a beloved tout known for his energy and charm
- He was part of the crew behind Opposite, the red and white Umoja-based matatu that claimed the Kenya One title three years in a row
- On the same day Mood launched, Mavela’s passing left a heavy cloud over celebrations, with tributes pouring in from fellow crews and fans alike
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The matatu industry is in mourning following the death of a much-loved tout, famously known as Mavela.

Source: UGC
Mavela was part of the crew that operated Opposite, arguably Kenya's most decorated public service vehicle (PSV).
The red and white matatu, which operates along the Umoja route, won the prestigious Kenya One title three times in a row.
However, the young driver behind the vehicle's fame, known as Carter, recently exited, opting for long-distance buses.
How did Umoja's Mavela die?
Sources who spoke to TUKO.co.ke said that Mavela died on Friday, 18 July, at the Umoja stage.
“He was run over by another matatu,” the source said.
His death shook matatu enthusiasts on a day when many celebrated the launch of Mood.
George Ruto’s crew paid tribute to Mavela via their Instagram page, showing unity despite the competition over which route has the hottest PSV.
"Rest in peace, Mavela. Our deepest condolences to Umoja and the family and friends of Mavela,” they wrote.

Source: Instagram
Tributes for Mavela poured in on social media, with many cautioning the youth on the dangers of the matatu industry.
Numerous social media users said they had interacted with Mavela hours before his untimely death.
What did Kenyans say about Mavela's death?
Mákõrõ Mlüñgā:
“Stop joking. I saw him at OTC.”
Melisa Sheba:
“RIP, Canadian boy. You'll be missed.”
Grace Theuri:
“Those who are playing the blame game on the culture, let me ask you, will you live forever? If it’s your day to depart from the earth, there’s nothing you can do.”
Kanairo Ndio Mtaa:
“By the time many of you realise how you're being wasted and you don't benefit much like an investor or Sacco, it will take even lives for you to learn. I pity the family of the young man. God give them strength. The guys who think culture can surpass safety, you have to change or perish.”
Zablon Zablon:
“I am an Embakasi diehard, but he was my champion. RIP.”
Willy Munga:
“I was with him at 5 pm around OTC.”
Dan Odhiambo:
“That's how life is, too short.”
Dorcas Martha:
“Ghaaai, it's still fresh in our minds that he is the only son left, and now he is gone, so painful.”
What happened at Mood matatu's launch?

Source: Instagram
In other news, TUKO.co.ke reported that Mood finally hit the streets after several delays.
A preacher prayed over the matatu before crowds gathered for the free-entry bash. Despite heavy rain, thousands stayed, dancing to live DJ sets.
Afterwards, Mood, flanked by Money Fest and Matrix, made its grand debut trip through the CBD, thrilling onlookers.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke