Kericho: The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), in collaboration with the Kericho County Transport and Safety Committee, has initiated a structured engagement with boda boda riders throughout the county. This initiative aims to facilitate a peaceful transition of leadership and strengthen adherence to road safety regulations.
According to Kenya News Agency, NTSA Regional Manager Ascar David highlighted the critical role that boda boda leaders play in promoting discipline and safety consciousness among riders during a consultative meeting held at the ACK Conference Hall in Kericho. Ascar noted that the boda boda sector has experienced significant growth, becoming an essential component of the transport ecosystem, which necessitates organized leadership and active involvement in county safety initiatives.
“We recognize that boda boda riders are at the heart of the county’s transport system, providing employment and critical mobility services. However, leadership within the sector must be well-organized and accountable to address challenges such as road safety compliance, which remains a priority for NTSA and the County Safety Committee,” Ascar stated. She emphasized the importance of a peaceful and transparent leadership transition process, adding that the engagement forums are designed to empower boda boda leaders with the knowledge and capacity to effectively guide their members.
Edwin Koros, Chairman of the County Boda Boda Operators Association, reiterated the association’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and orderly leadership transition aimed at fostering unity within the sector. Koros stressed that a well-managed transition is crucial for promoting discipline and accountability among operators, underscoring the need for stage chairpersons to fully understand their leadership responsibilities, particularly in enforcing road safety regulations and guiding riders on best practices.
Koros also praised NTSA and county authorities for their continued efforts to strengthen the capacity of boda boda leaders through ongoing training and sensitization programs. These initiatives have equipped sector leaders with essential skills and knowledge on governance, safety compliance, and effective rider management, fostering a culture of responsibility and professionalism within the industry.
Florence Wekesa, the County Emergency Services Coordinator, supported these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of rider safety, especially during adverse weather conditions. Wekesa urged operators to consistently wear protective gear, including helmets and reflective jackets, and to seek immediate medical assistance in the event of road accidents.
“As a county, we have established an emergency response center at the Kericho County Referral Hospital, equipped with 12 ambulances ready to respond to accident scenes. Boda boda riders can reach us through the emergency hotline 0724 035 036 for immediate assistance,” Wekesa revealed. She added that riders registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme are entitled to free emergency services, including evacuation and treatment for accident-related injuries. The SHA package aims to shield operators from the high cost of emergency medical care while promoting a culture of safety and responsibility among road users.
Wekesa observed that over the past five years, Kericho County has seen a steady decline in boda boda-related accidents, attributing this positive trend to the collaborative efforts between NTSA, the County Transport and Safety Committee, and boda boda leaders in promoting road safety education and enforcing traffic regulations. “From an alarming average of over 20 cases per week five years ago, we are now reporting about five cases weekly. This is a significant milestone, but we believe there is still more to be done,” Wekesa added.
