5 unique features that make George Ruto’s ng’anya the illest matatu in Kenya

When President William Ruto’s son, George Ruto, announced he was about to drop a new matatu, Nairobi’s streets braced for a seismic shake-up in matatu culture. And shake them he did.

Unveiled in a blaze of neon and bass at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) on July 19, 2025, George’s new ride—aptly named Mood—has become an instant icon.

Forget your run-of-the-mill PSVs. This is not just transport. It’s a moving, roaring, LED-lit rebellion against boring commutes.

Thousands turned out for the launch, which doubled up as a street-style concert, complete with deejays, MCs, flashing lights, and enough decibels to wake Nyayo House.

The celebration culminated in a triumphant parade through the CBD—Mood at the centre, a swarm of fans behind, and traffic chaos in its glorious wake.

So what makes Mood the illest matatu on Kenyan roads? Here’s a breakdown of the five standout features that have tongues wagging and heads turning.

1. Onboard DJ deck

While Nairobi drivers curse their way through gridlocks, Mood passengers are vibing to a live DJ spinning next to the driver’s seat.

Yes, you read that right. A fully installed DJ mixer/controller—not tucked away in the back, but up front where the co-driver used to be.

Forget FM radio. With Mood, every trip is a mobile concert, a dancefloor on wheels. This is Kenya’s first PSV where your fare comes with a soundtrack curated live.

2. Subwoofers that shake the soul

No nganya is complete without a proper sound system—but Mood takes this to an entirely new octave.

Beneath the seats lie massive subwoofers, while extra speakers are discreetly mounted across the cabin to create a club-like acoustics experience.

It’s not just music—it’s an onslaught. You don’t hear the bass—you feel it in your ribcage.

For Nairobi’s youth, that’s not just transportation. That’s therapy.

3. Custom comfort

While most PSVs cram passengers like cattle, Mood rolls out plush, custom bucket seats—only 26 of them—each kitted with cup holders and charging ports.

Whether you’re sipping a cold soda or charging your phone for that TikTok upload, Mood has you covered.

It’s giving premium economy in a matatu body. And passengers are loving it.

4. Push-to-start and solar power

The cockpit of Mood looks more Tesla than Toyota. With a push-to-start ignition, sleek controls, and a futuristic dash, this matatu practically begs to be piloted, not driven.

Even better? It runs partially on solar energy. Lights, music, and digital screens keep going even when the engine’s off, thanks to rooftop solar panels—green, clean, and unbothered by Kenya Power.

5. AC, vibes and a plate to match

Air conditioning in a matatu? That’s the kind of luxury Mood delivers. Gone are the suffocating rides of old; here comes a PSV where passengers breathe easy—literally.

And of course, the custom number plate—rumoured to have gotten NTSA’s nod—completes the package, adding that last bit of attitude to an already audacious beast on wheels.

Let’s not forget George Ruto’s other creation—Manifest (nicknamed Moneyfest)—launched in 2024. With 55-inch side TVs, six monster subwoofers, and “The World is Yours” splashed across a tinted windshield, Manifest was the opening act. Mood? That’s the headliner.

Whether you see it as innovation, indulgence, or just noise on wheels, one thing is certain—George Ruto has thrown down the gauntlet in matatu culture. And Mood isn’t just a name; it’s a statement. Kenya’s streets may never be the same again.

Welcome to the era of Presidential PSVs.