Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has been elected as the patron of bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators in Kenya, a move expected to strengthen advocacy for the rights and welfare of riders across the country. The announcement came after a meeting held at Sonko’s Mua Farm in Machakos, where sector leaders expressed confidence in his leadership to champion their interests.
One of the key issues discussed at the meeting was the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023, sponsored by Kakamega Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale. The proposed legislation seeks to introduce new regulations regarding the registration, operation, and management of bodaboda services at the county level. However, industry leaders raised concerns that certain provisions of the bill could negatively impact their businesses. They emphasized the need for their voices to be considered in shaping policies that directly affect their livelihoods.
Sonko, in accepting his new role, vowed to advocate for the interests of bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators. He pledged to engage with government agencies, county governments, law enforcement, insurance firms, and financial institutions to address pressing concerns such as delays in insurance claims, difficulties in accessing spare parts, and challenges in securing affordable loans for operators.
“From now on, we shall engage with the government, its departments, county governments, insurance agencies, and financial institutions that provide loans to bodaboda operators to tackle spare part shortages and other pressing challenges,” Sonko stated.
Nehemiah Kiwa, Chairman of the Bodaboda and Tuk-Tuk Transport Union of Kenya, underscored the importance of representation, stating that the 2.5 million bodaboda riders who played a crucial role in electing the current administration deserve to be heard. “We need our fair share in this government. We deserve to be heard and respected,” Kiwa said.
Leaders also highlighted the need for structured training programs to improve road safety, calling on the government to allocate funds for rider education. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding discrimination against digital bodaboda operators, with calls for fair treatment.
A six-member steering committee, led by Kiwa, will oversee the daily affairs of the association under Sonko’s leadership, ensuring that bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators’ voices are heard and their rights protected.
