Motorcycle taxi (boda boda) operators in Kericho County have introduced stricter compliance measures to curb drug and alcohol abuse within their ranks, in a renewed effort to protect the image and credibility of their trade.
The move follows growing concern over rising cases of reckless riding linked to substance abuse, which operators say has negatively affected public trust in what was once considered a reliable and convenient transport service.
Speaking in an interview with KNA at his office on the outskirts of the Jua Kali area in Kericho town, Kericho County Boda Boda chairperson Peter Kigen said enforcement teams have intensified patrols and impromptu inspections across designated boda boda stages.
Kigen said since assuming office in October last year, the current leadership has prioritized restoring public confidence, enhancing road safety and empowering its membership, which stands at about 60,000 riders under the Kericho County Boda Boda Association (KCBA).
“As part of efforts to fight drug and alcohol abuse, we conduct unannounced inspections at various stages. Any rider found operating under the influence has their motorcycle confiscated for two weeks,” he said.
He added that offenders are only allowed to resume operations after demonstrating reform and committing to the association’s code of conduct, which emphasizes discipline, professionalism and safety.
In a unique approach aimed at fostering accountability, reformed offenders are assigned leadership roles within their respective boda boda stages. Kigen said this strategy encourages peer regulation and promotes responsibility among members.
“After the suspension period, riders must sign a commitment to adhere to our rules. We then give them leadership responsibilities within their stages so they can help enforce discipline and serve as examples to others,” he explained.
Kigen, popularly known as ‘Rasta’, also revealed that all boda boda operators in the county have clearly marked their motorcycles with designated stage numbers on the front bumper. He said this initiative enhances traceability and allows passengers to easily identify and report errant riders.
“With these markings, a passenger can report a rider suspected of misconduct by providing the stage number and registration details. This makes it easier for authorities to take action,” he noted.
The association is also working closely with traffic police to strengthen enforcement of road safety regulations. Through continuous sensitization forums held across the county’s six sub-counties, riders are encouraged to strictly adhere to traffic rules even in the absence of law enforcement officers.
Kigen said the reforms are already bearing fruit, with improved discipline among riders and growing public confidence in the sector. He noted that self-regulation has become a key pillar in transforming the boda boda industry in Kericho.
A trader from Kapsoit area in Belgut Sub-County, Mama Sally Chebet, who regularly uses boda boda services to transport produce to Kericho town market, welcomed the new measures, saying they have enhanced her sense of safety.
“Nowadays I feel safer because I can easily identify a rider and report any misconduct. Before, it was difficult to trust some of them,” she said.
A boda boda operator, Leonard Kosgei, who operates at Parking Stage Three, popularly known as Zuri, within Kericho town, also expressed optimism about the ongoing reforms. He said the efforts to enforce discipline are gradually changing public perception of the sector.
“We have taken it upon ourselves to ensure we offer safe and reliable services. Today, customers are more confident using boda bodas because they can see the difference,” he said.
Kosgei added that riders are now more aware of their responsibilities and the importance of maintaining professionalism in order to sustain their livelihoods.
With the new measures firmly in place, the Kericho County Boda Boda Association hopes to set a benchmark for discipline and accountability, not only within the county but also across the country.
By Sarah Njagi
