Mombasa: Tuk-tuk operators in Mombasa have issued a seven-day ultimatum to the County government to address their concerns over the new transport regulations, threatening to withdraw their services if their grievances are not addressed.
According to Kenya News Agency, the operators, represented by the Bodaboda and Tuk Tuk Transport Cooperative Union of Kenya (BOTUK) and the Mombasa Tuk-Tuk Union, have accused the Mombasa County Government of implementing the new rules without sufficient consultation or meaningful public participation. They argue that the enforcement measures could undermine the livelihoods of thousands of people who depend on the tuk-tuk sector, including drivers, vehicle owners, and associated businesses.
BOTUK Regional Chairman Ali Mohamed criticized the county’s enforcement approach, particularly the practice of photographing tuk-tuks suspected of violating the regulations before issuing instant penalties. He described the photographing and instant fines as harassment and stressed the need for engagement with industry stakeholders, given the sector’s support for thousands of families.
Mohamed urged the county to lift restrictions on the sale of tuk-tuks, arguing that such measures could prevent young people from accessing employment opportunities. He warned that if their demands are not addressed within seven days, the operators would seek legal redress and proceed with industrial action.
Morara Omanga, BOTUK National Secretary-General, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that transport policies should be introduced after extensive consultations with those directly affected. He highlighted the significant employment and transport contributions of the approximately 250,000 registered tuk-tuks in Kenya and urged the Mombasa County Government to ensure that regulations are fair, practical, and inclusive.
Mombasa Tuk-Tuk Chairman Obedi Muriu described tuk-tuks as a widely used transport option in the county, serving thousands of commuters daily and supporting tourism activities. He warned that restrictions on registering new tuk-tuks could hinder business expansion and worsen unemployment among young people. Muriu also raised concerns over double taxation at the Kilifi County barrier, which he claimed increases business costs.
He appealed to Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir to introduce fair licensing policies, reduce unnecessary levies, and establish empowerment programs for operators. Another industry representative, Salim Tsuma, questioned the legality and transparency of the enforcement process, alleging unauthorized personnel are involved in issuing penalties and highlighting an unfair business environment for local operators compared to those from neighboring counties.
Tsuma emphasized the importance of tuk-tuks in Mombasa’s transport system and called for engagement with the government to find lasting solutions to the concerns raised.
