Bodaboda sector taps Sonko for leadership amid regulation concerns

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko with a section of bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators in Mua Farm, Machakos. [Mike Sonko, Facebook]

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has been elected patron of bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators, representing over 2.5 million riders countrywide.

 The decision was made during a meeting at Sonko’s Mua Farm in Machakos, where sector leaders noted his leadership would help address their challenges and improve engagement with the government.

 A key issue raised was the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023, sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Boni Khalwale.

The Bill, passed by the Senate last month and now awaiting National Assembly approval, seeks to regulate bodaboda operations through mandatory registration, training, and stricter licensing.

 It proposes that riders complete approved courses covering safe riding techniques, customer care, emergency handling, and motorcycle maintenance before being licensed.

The law also mandates that every rider wear two Kenya Bureau of Standards-approved helmets and reflective jackets in good condition.

 At the same time, the Bill imposes hefty penalties for violations, including a Sh20,000 fine or six months in jail for riding on pavements or in the wrong direction. Riders who gang up to intimidate others could face a Sh100,000 fine or one-year imprisonment.

Carrying a passenger intending to commit a crime would also be criminalised.

 However, bodaboda representatives opposed several provisions, arguing they would burden operators and disrupt their businesses.

 Sonko pledged to engage Khalwale and other stakeholders to address their concerns.

 “We shall engage government agencies, county governments, insurance firms, and financial institutions to resolve issues like spare part shortages and delayed insurance claims,” said Sonko.

 Nehemiah Kiwa, Chairman of the Bodaboda & Tuk-Tuk Transport Union, urged the government to recognise riders’ contributions to the economy.

 “We were a key voting bloc in the last election but have been sidelined. Our voices must be heard,” said Kiwa.

 

Charles Gichira, Chairman of the Bodaboda Association, called for an end to profiling of riders as criminals. “We need reforms to professionalise the sector,” he said.

 The leaders also criticised the lack of funding for rider training despite the sector’s economic significance.

 A six-member steering committee led by Kiwa will oversee the association’s affairs under Sonko’s leadership.