Financial Literacy Training Empowers West Pokot Boda-Boda Riders

Kapenguria:West Pokot: More than 500 boda-boda riders in West Pokot County have participated in a financial literacy training program aimed at helping them manage their earnings, meet loan obligations, and secure their livelihoods.

According to Kenya News Agency, the training was organized by Mogo Kenya in partnership with the Boda Boda Association of Kenya (BAK) at Bendera in Kapenguria Town. It covered topics such as budgeting, cash-flow management, understanding loan agreements, and planning for regular repayments. Riders were also advised to communicate early with financiers if they encounter financial difficulties affecting their ability to repay loans.

Motorcycles serve as a primary means of transport and income for many operators, supporting families, paying school fees, and covering other household expenses. Industry estimates suggest there are about 2.4 million motorcycles in use in Kenya, with 68.4 percent financed through digital and asset-based credit, underscoring the need for responsible borrowing.

The training comes amid concerns over loan repayment, highlighted by the Central Bank of Kenya’s Financial Sector Stability Report, which noted a gross non-performing loan ratio of 15.6 percent in March 2026. The boda-boda sector generates approximately Sh660 billion annually, supports more than 2.5 million jobs, and contributes 4.4 percent to Kenya’s GDP.

Becky Ngigi, Mogo Kenya’s Head of Public Relations, emphasized the importance of financial literacy for riders, as motorcycles financed through credit are often their main livelihood source. She urged riders to understand credit costs, manage daily income, and plan loan repayments to maintain financial stability and productive motorcycles.

BAK President Kevin Mubadi highlighted the necessity of financial literacy for operators, as they rely on motorcycles to earn a living and support their families. He advocated for collaboration between riders, financiers, and industry associations to enhance financial management and informed borrowing decisions.

County Commissioner David Saruni encouraged boda-boda operators to join organized groups to benefit from government programs targeting the sector. He praised local leaders for reducing motorcycle theft through organization and regulation and urged riders to follow traffic laws and maintain communication with financiers.

West Pokot County Boda Boda Chairman Moses Loitasiwa welcomed the training, noting its potential to help riders make better financial decisions. He encouraged riders to understand loan terms and maintain communication with financiers when their income is affected.

Deputy County Police Commander Joseph Yakan highlighted the sector’s contribution to economic development and urged operators to take advantage of training opportunities. He stressed the importance of driving courses and customer-care skills for improved service delivery.

The Kapenguria training is part of a broader financial literacy program by Mogo Kenya and BAK, reaching operators in various regions to equip them with financial management skills for responsible credit use and business sustainability. Mogo Kenya is part of Eleving Group, a global FinTech company operating in 17 countries.