Luanda: The government has stepped up efforts to reform the boda-boda sector through a raft of measures aimed at improving road safety, enhancing professionalism and unlocking the industry’s economic potential. Speaking during a boda boda stakeholders’ forum at the Vihiga County Commissioner’s Grounds in Mbale, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo said the government recognizes the boda boda industry as a critical pillar of Kenya’s transport system and a major source of employment for millions of young people.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Omollo said the reforms seek to transform the sector into a well-organized, safe and respected industry capable of contributing more effectively to national development. He noted that the government is working with county governments, security agencies and boda boda associations to strengthen compliance with traffic regulations, promote rider training and encourage registration of operators through recognised associations and savings and credit cooperatives (SACCOs).
The PS said a structured sector would help reduce road crashes, improve service delivery and enhance the welfare of riders by increasing access to financial services, insurance and social protection programmes. He announced that motorcycles impounded for minor offences would be released, while urging operators to comply with the law by obtaining valid driving licences, insurance cover, reflective jackets and helmets and by observing traffic regulations.
Dr. Omollo said the government would continue engaging stakeholders to develop practical solutions that address the challenges facing the sector, including insecurity, reckless riding and limited access to affordable financing. He promised more empowerment programmes to enable riders to support themselves and their families. He noted that fuel prices were declining and urged riders to consider electric motorcycles. ‘They are reliable, even though they are not as fast as petrol bikes,’ he said.
Dr. Omollo further encouraged riders to embrace savings and investment opportunities through organised groups, saying financial discipline would enable them to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods. The PS also called on road users to respect boda boda operators, noting that the majority provide an essential transport service that supports trade, connects rural communities and facilitates access to schools, health facilities and markets.
Leaders at the forum welcomed the government’s commitment, saying sustained collaboration between public institutions and the industry would help professionalize the sector and improve safety on Kenyan roads. The reforms form part of broader government efforts to position the boda boda industry as a reliable, organised and economically vibrant component of the country’s transport sector, while creating sustainable employment opportunities for thousands of Kenyans.
