Kitui: The County Government of Kitui has issued 783 boda boda operators smart digital driving licenses in an effort to combat road accidents across the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, prior to acquiring the licenses, the beneficiaries successfully completed a comprehensive road safety training programme, which was funded and organized by the County Government and supervised by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). Speaking while presiding over the license issuance ceremony at KEFRI grounds in Kitui town, Governor Dr. Julius Malombe emphasized that the training of boda boda riders demonstrates his administration’s commitment to creating safer roads and promoting efficient transport services.
Governor Malombe urged the newly licensed riders to adhere to traffic regulations, prioritize passenger safety, and act as ambassadors of road discipline within their communities. He stated that the boda boda riders training programme, approved by NTSA, is part of the county’s efforts to professionalize the sector and reduce road accidents. “Our goal is to ensure that every boda boda operator is trained, licensed, and compliant with traffic rules. This will not only improve road safety but also create order and dignity in the sector,” the Governor added.
He further noted that his administration aims to transform transport and empower lives through the County Department of Transport, and he pledged to work with boda boda associations to enforce compliance and provide support services to the riders.
The Kitui County traffic commander, Chesire Kibor, who attended the ceremony, commended the county government for the training and reminded operators to be fully dressed and carry their driving licenses while on the road. He advised that every boda boda operator should be registered as a member of a Sacco or welfare for clear identification, distinguishing them from non-riders who may have different intentions.
Mr. Kibor further cautioned the boda boda operators against engaging in criminal activities, urging them instead to cooperate with security agents in the fight against crime both in the county and nationwide.
Mr. Muthui Maluki, a boda boda operator from Tsikuru ward and a beneficiary of the training program, expressed gratitude to the county government for the initiative. “The training program has helped us acquire the necessary skills to operate professionally and legally too,” Maluki noted.
