Meaning of makanga | Babel Free

Definitions

A tout; one who is hired to convince passengers to take a specific taxi or matatu.

Kenya

Examples

“In the Nairobi City Council today, we have⟳ many councillors who were makangas. I hope⟳ that in future the Opposition will see⟳ it fit to elect⟳ people of high calibre as councillors rather than bring⟳ in the kind of makanga councillors we have⟳ today, who have⟳ contributed to the decay in the City of Nairobi.”

“Sometimes there are several matatus en route to the same destination, so makangas will “fight⟳”over you. One may even grab⟳ your luggage and force⟳ you to follow⟳ him to his matatu.”

“One owner who operated on a route known for its 'dot.com' youth stated 'Those who call⟳ passengers cannot get⟳ anybody if they are dirty and badly dressed, makangas (touts) must be clean⟳ and well dressed; wear⟳ bling blings and sagging jeans.'”

CEFR level