NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 17 – 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.
During a meeting held at Sonko’s Mua Farm in Machakos, the leaders expressed confidence that he would advocate for their interests, address their challenges, and effectively represent them in discussions with the government.
A major topic discussed was the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023, introduced by Kakamega Senator Dr. Boni Khalwale. The bill aims to regulate the registration, operation, and management of bodaboda services at the county level.
Sonko accepted his role as the Patron of Bodaboda and Tuk-Tuk operators in Kenya, vowing to champion their causes. He committed to addressing issues related to government institutions, county governments, law enforcement, parliament, insurance agencies—especially the delays in claim payments—and the challenges in accessing spare parts.
“From now on, we will engage with the government, its agencies, county governments, insurance firms, and financial institutions that provide loans to bodaboda operators to address shortages of spare parts and other urgent issues,” Sonko said.
He also indicated plans to meet with Senator Boni Khalwale to discuss the challenges bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators face in the proposed bill and other pressing matters.
Nehemiah Kiwa, Chairman of the Bodaboda & Tuk-Tuk Transport Union of Kenya, emphasized that it was time for the government to recognize the needs of the 2.5 million riders who played a crucial role in electing the current administration.
“We need our fair share in this government. We need to be heard and respected. We are confident that Sonko will assist us. This government was elected by the common mwananchi—Mama Mboga and bodaboda riders—but we have been forgotten. Our rights must be acknowledged,” Kiwa said.
Charles Gichira, Chairman of the Bodaboda Association, highlighted the need for reforms and professionalization in the sector, urging the government to stop viewing riders as criminals.
“With Sonko on our side, the 2.5 million bodaboda and tuk-tuk riders can be 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 substantial revenue.
“We are leading in road accidents in Kenya because we lack proper training. The funds allocated to the transport sector never reach us. We need structured training programs, and we believe Sonko can help us achieve that,” said Onyango, a bodaboda leader.
Calvis Okumu, Chairman of the Digital Riders and Delivery Association, spoke about the discrimination faced by digital bodaboda operators.
“We are often forced to park our delivery bikes far from estates just because we are bodaboda riders. This discrimination must end. Sonko, we need your help to ensure fair treatment for all riders,” Okumu appealed.