- The former Nairobi governor, Mike Mbuvi Sonko, has been collectively chosen as the patron for more than 2.5 million boda boda and tuk-tuk operators across Kenya.
- The riders gathered at Sonko’s Mua Farm in Machakos expressed worries about the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023.
- Sonko committed to collaborating with governmental bodies, local administrations, and insurance companies to tackle major issues.
Ivan Mboto from CDRNEWS.co.ke has more than three years of expertise in covering politics and contemporary issues in Kenya.
Leaders from different SACCOs and organizations representing Kenya's boda bodas and tuk-tuk drivers have collectively selected ex-Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko as their patron.
The gathering at Sonko’s Mua Farm in Machakos convened various players in the industry who were worried about the growing difficulties within the transportation sector.
The leaders showed faith that Sonko's guidance will play a crucial role in championing their rights and addressing long-standing issues within the transportation industry.
A key topic addressed during the discussion was the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023, introduced by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale. This bill aims to establish guidelines for the registration, functioning, and administration of bodaboda operations within counties.
Nevertheless, many riders worry that certain aspects of these measures might adversely affect their livelihoods, emphasizing the importance of thorough discussion prior to enforcement.
Boda boda operators, tuk-tuk drivers call for acknowledgment
Nehemiah Kiwa, chairman of the Bodaboda & Tuk-Tuk Transport Union of Kenya, highlighted the crucial part played by riders in the election of the present administration and called for their requirements to be given top priority.
"We require our rightful portion within this administration. It is essential that our voices are acknowledged and valued. We firmly believe that Sonko will champion our cause. This government came into power through the support of ordinary citizens—the mamaboga and bodaboda riders alike—but we feel neglected. Our entitlements should be honored," asserted Kiwa.
Charles Gichira, the Chairman of the Bodaboda Association, appealed to the government to cease criminalizing riders and instead concentrate on improving and formalizing the industry.
"Having Sonko supporting us means that the 2.5 million boda-boda and tuk-tuk drivers can feel confident their well-being, safety, and issues will be taken care of," he stated.
He also pointed out the absence of organized training programs for riders, even though the transportation industry generates substantial income.
"We lead in road accidents in Kenya because of insufficient training. The funds designated for the transportation sector do not reach us. We require well-structured training programs, and we trust Sonko can assist us in achieving this," he stated.
Calvis Okumu, Chairman of the Digital Riders and Delivery Association, condemned the discrimination experienced by digital boda-boda operators.
"We frequently have to park our delivery motorcycles far away from residential areas just because we are boda boda riders. This discrimination needs to end. Sonko, we require your help to guarantee equal treatment for all cyclists," Okumu appealed.
To maintain ongoing involvement and proper representation, a six-person steering committee headed by Nehemiah Kiwa has been established.
The committee will oversee the day-to-day affairs of the association under Sonko’s leadership, ensuring that bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators have a stronger voice in policy making and that their rights are upheld.
Sonko’s dedication to supporting boda boda and tuk-tuk drivers
Upon accepting his new position, Sonko pledged to work towards addressing the major concerns facing bodaboda and tuk-tuk drivers.
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the union for the confidence they have placed in me and my ability to lead, and I commit to advocating for their rights," Sonko said.
He committed to involve pertinent government bodies, county authorities, and financial institutions to tackle systemic issues like hold-ups in insurance claims processing and problems with obtaining spare parts.
"Starting from now, we will collaborate with the government, county administrations, insurance companies, and financial institutions offering loans to boda boda riders to address issues such as scarcity of spare parts and other urgent problems," Sonko stated.
He additionally pledged to meet with Khalwale to address the controversial parts of the suggested legislation, making sure that the issues raised by the riders are taken into account.
The former Nairobi boss also promised to restore order in the sector, and weeding out the criminal elements that have tarnished the name of the boda boda industry.
What are the specifics of Khalwale's boda boda legislation?
This legislation mandates motorcyclists who wish to operate commercially to register their bikes, pay an yearly charge, and complete appropriate training programs. Local panels will be established to monitor adherence to these regulations.
This requirement includes fitting all commercial motorcycles with tracking devices for continuous location surveillance. Additionally, operators have to adhere to updated regulations such as transporting just one adult rider at a time and possessing official work agreements.
Offenders will be subject to penalties including fines between KSh 20,000 and KSh 100,000 as well as potential imprisonment lasting up to one year. Additionally, the legislation permits the suspension or cancellation of registration certificates for those who do not comply with regulations.