A new bill has been proposed to give counties more authority over boda boda operations.
This includes registering riders, ensuring safety, and managing routes. If the bill becomes law, those who break the rules could be fined up to Sh20,000.
Boda bodas are motorcycle taxis that many people in Kenya use daily.
They are important for transportation and help many earn a living. However, there have been concerns about safety and how they operate.
Some riders don’t follow traffic rules, leading to accidents and other problems.
The proposed bill aims to address these issues. It suggests that each of Kenya’s 47 counties should have a board to oversee boda boda activities.
These boards would create policies, issue licenses, plan routes, and run safety programs.
They would also make sure riders are trained and follow the rules.If the bill passes, all riders would need to complete training approved by their county.
This training would cover safe riding, traffic laws, customer service, security, and motorcycle maintenance.
Riders would also need to have clean driving records and insurance.
They would have to register and get licenses from the county boards.The bill also proposes limits on the motorcycles used.
For example, it suggests that boda bodas should have engines no larger than 250cc and shouldn’t carry loads over 50 kilograms.
Riders would be required to carry only one passenger, and both the rider and passenger must wear helmets and reflective jackets.
To discourage breaking the rules, the bill sets penalties for various offenses.
For instance, riding on sidewalks, going against traffic, or forming groups to intimidate others would be punishable.
Offenders could face fines up to Sh100,000 or even jail time.In recent years, there has been a rise in accidents involving boda bodas.
A report from the National Transport and Safety Authority in 2022 found that nearly one-third of all road accident deaths in Kenya involved motorcycles.
This highlights the need for better regulation and safety measures in the sector.
The government has already started efforts to improve the boda boda industry.
In September 2024, riders were given 60 days to register and get smart driving licenses.
This move was meant to promote road safety and security for both riders and passengers.
Riders were required to present their national ID, a copy of their tax PIN, and an active phone number during registration.
The government warned that those who didn’t register within the given time would face strict measures, including being denied permission to operate.
Additionally, the government offered health coverage to the first 200,000 riders who registered and got licensed.
This was part of a plan to support the sector and ensure riders have access to medical services.
In October 2024, a partnership was formed between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Boda Boda Association of Nairobi.
This partnership aimed to improve healthcare access and provide safety training for riders.
The goal was to reduce accidents and address challenges faced by riders, who play a big role in the economy.
The proposed bill is another step towards making the boda boda sector safer and more organized.
By giving counties more power to regulate the industry, the government hopes to address the challenges and ensure that boda bodas continue to serve the public effectively.
