Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki has committed to helping new bodaboda operators in Maara Constituency obtain licenses to ensure adherence to the law. This move comes in response to Chogoria bodaboda operators claiming harassment by police officers.
The MP also announced plans to facilitate the formation and registration of bodaboda operator saccos throughout the constituency, with the initiative aimed to provide a structured support system for the operators.
In recent years, MP Kareke has overseen the training of 1,000 bodaboda operators, equipping them with the knowledge to adhere to traffic rules and avoid conflicts with law enforcement.
During a meeting convened by his office, attended by bodaboda operators and security officers including the OCS, OCPD, and Traffic Base Commander, it was agreed that all impounded motorcycles would be released to allow operators to resume business.
Additionally, it was resolved that all bodaboda operators must adhere to traffic rules, possess valid driving licenses, and have insurance coverage.
To address noise pollution, operators were instructed to remove mufflers from their motorcycles. They were also reminded not to bribe police officers to maintain peaceful co-existence between the two parties.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled in two weeks to set deadlines for compliance with these regulations.
The bodaboda sub-sector in the country is estimated to create over one million direct jobs for riders, who collectively earn approximately Ksh 1 billion daily. The government collects around Ksh 60 billion annually in fuel taxes from bodaboda, which consume an average of Ksh 300 in fuel per day. This consumption translates to Ksh 300 million daily, highlighting the sub-sector’s significant contribution to the social and economic development of the country.
According to a 2018 report by the National Crime Research Centre, 65.1% of bodaboda accidents are due to the reckless behavior of riders. In response, the government launched a nationwide bodaboda training program in February 2021 to instill discipline and restore order in the sector. However, many riders perceive the high registration fee as a barrier to attending the training.
