Mombasa: The public transport and storage sector contributes an average of eight to nine per cent of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is a vibrant sub-sector within the broader services industry, which accounts for over 5.5 per cent of the national GDP and operates primarily through road, rail, air, and pipeline.
According to Kenya News Agency, data from the Kenya Bureau of Statistics (KBS) indicates that this sector generates between Sh.200 billion to 400 billion into the Kenyan economy annually. Road transport remains the most commonly used mode for facilitating the movement of goods and services in Kenya. Among the various mediums of road transport are matatus, the bodaboda sector, and more recently, tuktuks.
Tuktuks, or auto-rickshaws, are three-wheeled vehicles with an open-sided body and a roof covered by a canvas. Initially introduced in Japan as motorized delivery tricycles, they evolved into a form of transport by the 1930s. The name “tuktuk” is of Thai origin, derived from the distinctive sound of their original engines.
In Kenya, tuktuks were first introduced around 1990 in coastal regions, particularly Mombasa, gaining momentum around the year 2000 as they spread to other major towns. Data from the Ministry of Transport shows there are approximately 15,000 to 17,000 registered tuktuks operating in Mombasa and across the country.
Vincent Otieno, a resident of Kisumu, views his tuktuk as more than just a vehicle-it’s a way of life. Having operated his business in the lakeside city for over ten years, he describes it as both a vital lifeline and a personal passion. Despite challenges, including rising inflation and fuel costs, Vincent continues to provide an essential service, navigating the streets with resilience and a love for the drive.
The sector has faced difficulties since the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered movement patterns and economic stability. Beyond fuel, the high cost of spare parts and general maintenance remain burdensome for operators. Vincent advises newcomers to prioritize outright ownership of their tuktuks to avoid debt, given the minimal revenue now generated.
Despite the economic climate, tuktuks remain a staple of Kisumu’s urban transport system, offering affordability, accessibility, and efficiency. Vincent dreams of expanding his business to own a fleet of tuktuks and eventually lorries for long-distance hauls.
