Boda boda industry revs up Kenya's economy but riders face health crisis

Boda-boda riders in Migori County staged a protest for two days over unfair taxation, bad roads. (Photo by Anne Atieno).

The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) estimates that there are 1.6 million riders in Kenya, 1.3 million of whom are young. With these numbers, the sector prides itself being the largest single employer in the country.

It is estimated that the number of riders increases by 25 per cent annually. Everyone recognises that the industry plays a significant role in addressing unemployment as young people enter the job market.