Matatu Metropolis

• Prize
  Bronze in Press/Performing Arts
• Photographer
  Christian Bobst Bobst, Switzerland

They are colourful, loud and flashy - the Matatus of Nairobi. In Kenya's capital these pimped, private buses are the main means of transport. The Matatus transport most commuters in this vast city, which spreads over an area of 696 square kilometres, They are so numerous that they contribute significantly to the daily traffic collapse in Nairobi. Between 20,000 and 40,000 graffiti-covered Matatus compete for the attention of the people on the streets. The owners of the Matatus pimp the exteriors, interiors and motor of their buses in order to make every single bus a roaring peace of art.