Migori: Boda boda operators in Homa Bay County have raised concerns over the rise in motorcycle thefts, saying the trend threatens their livelihoods and the general business climate in the area. They said the menace was exposing them to heavy financial losses and called on security agencies and members of the public to cooperate to curb the menace.
According to Kenya News Agency, operators report that cases of stolen motorcycles have become disturbingly frequent in recent months, forcing many riders to change their working routines and remain constantly alert while carrying out their daily business. For many families that rely on boda boda transport as their main source of income, losing a motorcycle means losing the only means of earning a living.
Speaking during a meeting with boda boda operators in Homa Bay Sub-county, the Chairman of the Homa Bay Sub-county Boda Boda Association, Richard Opiyo, said the association has received numerous reports of motorcycles being stolen in different parking locations. Opiyo noted that thieves have become increasingly bold, targeting motorcycles parked outside businesses, shopping centers, hospitals, schools, and other public places.
Opiyo expressed concern over institutions such as hospitals and schools where riders are often required to leave their motorcycles outside before entering the premises. He said such areas have become vulnerable because operators have limited control over the safety of their motorcycles. The chairman urged security officers to intensify patrols in areas identified as theft hotspots and ensure those involved in motorcycle theft are arrested and prosecuted.
Motorcycle transport remains one of the largest informal employment sectors in Homa Bay County, providing jobs to thousands of young people. Most riders use loans or personal savings to acquire motorcycles, making theft not only an emotional loss but also a serious financial burden. The Secretary of the Homa Bay Sub-county Boda Boda Association, Collins Okoth, described motorcycle theft as one of the biggest challenges currently facing operators.
Okoth explained that the fear of theft has forced many riders to reduce their working hours, affecting their daily earnings. He encouraged all boda boda operators to register their motorcycles and keep proper ownership records, saying registration would make it easier for authorities to identify and recover stolen motorcycles.
Some operators who have experienced the fear of losing their motorcycles say the situation has changed the way they conduct business. Boda boda rider David Juma stated that many operators now work under constant fear, worrying that their motorcycles could disappear at any moment.
Residents have also expressed concern over the rising incidents, noting that motorcycle theft affects not only operators but also passengers who rely on boda boda services for transport to hospitals, schools, markets, and other destinations. The boda boda sector plays a significant role in Homa Bay County’s economy by providing affordable transport while creating employment opportunities for thousands of youths. However, riders say the continued theft of motorcycles threatens the sustainability of the sector.
Operators are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the police. They say cooperation between residents, security officers, and boda boda associations will be critical in identifying criminal networks involved in motorcycle theft. The riders also appealed to county authorities and private institutions to improve security around parking areas by installing surveillance cameras, employing security personnel, and creating designated secure parking spaces for motorcycles.
As concerns continue to grow, boda boda operators hope that increased security patrols, proper registration of motorcycles, and stronger collaboration between the public and law enforcement agencies will help reduce theft cases and protect the livelihoods of thousands of families that depend on the boda boda business in Homa Bay County.
