Leaders of various Saccos and associations representing over 2.5 million bodaboda and tuk-tuk riders in Kenya have unanimously elected former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko as their patron.
They believe his leadership will be instrumental in advocating for their rights and addressing the longstanding challenges faced in the sector.
During a meeting held at Sonko’s Mua Farm in Machakos, the leaders expressed their confidence in him to effectively represent their interests and facilitate solutions to the issues they encounter daily.
One of the key topics discussed was the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023, sponsored by Kakamega Senator Dr Boni Khalwale.
This proposed legislation aims to introduce new regulations regarding the registration, operation, and management of bodaboda services at the county level.
The leaders raised concerns about certain provisions in the bill that they believe could adversely impact their operations, underscoring the importance of having their voices heard in shaping policies that affect their livelihoods.
Sonko accepted his role as the patron for bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators in Kenya, stating his commitment to championing their agendas.
He pledged to address various issues related to government institutions, county governments, law enforcement, parliament, and insurance agencies—particularly the long delays in claims payments and challenges in accessing spare parts.
“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.
He also committed to meeting with Senator Boni Khalwale to discuss the challenges faced by bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators concerning the proposed bill, among other pertinent issues.
Nehemiah Kiwa, Chairman of the Bodaboda & Tuk-Tuk Transport Union of Kenya, emphasised the urgent need for the government to address the needs of the 2.5 million riders who played a significant role in electing the current administration.
“We need our fair share in this government. We deserve to be heard and respected. We are confident that Sonko will advocate for us.
This government was elected by the common mwananchi—Mama Mboga and bodaboda riders—but we have been overlooked. Our rights must be recognised,” Kiwa stated.
Charles Gichira, Chairman of the Bodaboda Association, highlighted the importance of reforming and professionalising the sector, urging the government to cease viewing riders as criminals.
“With Sonko on our side, the 2.5 million bodaboda and tuk-tuk riders can rest assured that our welfare, security, and concerns will be addressed,” he said.
He also lamented the lack of funding for rider training, despite the transport sector generating significant revenue. “We are leading in road accidents in Kenya due to a lack of proper training. Funds allocated to the transport sector never reach us. We need structured training programmes, and we believe Sonko can help us achieve that,” added Onyango, a bodaboda leader.
Calvis Okumu, Chairman of the Digital Riders and Delivery Association, shed light on the discrimination faced by digital bodaboda operators. “We are often forced to park our delivery bikes far from estates simply because we are bodaboda riders.
This discrimination must cease. Sonko, we need your assistance to ensure fair treatment for all riders,” Okumu urged.
The leaders expressed optimism that Sonko’s experience and influence in governance would lead to improvements in working conditions within the sector.
A six-member steering committee, led by Nehemiah Kiwa, will oversee the day-to-day affairs of the association under Sonko’s leadership as patron, ensuring that the voices of bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators are heard and their rights upheld.
