Boda boda operators in Kericho County have been called on to strictly comply with road safety regulations and embrace professionalism as efforts intensify to reduce motorcycle-related crashes and improve safety on the country’s roads.
The county has an estimated 60,000 boda boda operators, making the sector one of the largest sources of employment.
Riders have been encouraged to meet National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) requirements by obtaining valid motorcycle driving licences, third-party insurance, certificates of good conduct and registering under recognised SACCOs or organised rider groups.
Speaking during the launch of the Ainamoi Boda Transport Co-op Society Ltd, Chairperson Fred Kirui said road safety requires commitment from every rider, noting that responsible behaviour on the road is key to protecting passengers and other road users.
“Every rider has a duty beyond earning a living; they are entrusted with human lives every time they start a motorcycle engine. Safety must therefore guide every decision made on the road, from how one rides to how passengers are handled,” said Mr Kirui.
Mr Kirui encouraged boda boda operators to embrace safe riding practices, including digital registration, ensuring both riders and passengers wear approved helmets and reflector jackets, avoiding speeding, riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, overloading motorcycles, carrying passengers alongside cargo and making unauthorised modifications.
He further cautioned riders against using pedestrian walkways and advised them to seek legal solutions whenever accidents occur instead of engaging in mob justice, saying adherence to the law would help improve the image of the sector.
“An accident should not lead to another tragedy. Disputes must be handled through the right channels because justice cannot be achieved through violence or destruction of property,” Mr Kirui noted.
Turning to the cooperative society, he explained that the Ainamoi Boda Transport Co-op Society Ltd was established in 2022 but later became inactive before being revived after consultations among operators in 2025.
The society resumed operations with 10 members and has since expanded to 46 members.
“We saw the need to come together because individual riders face many challenges that can be addressed through unity. Through the cooperative, members can save, access financial support and create a stronger foundation for their businesses,” stated Mr Kirui.
According to the Chairperson, the cooperative would complement government initiatives by promoting discipline, self-regulation and continuous road safety sensitisation among members while creating an organised platform for motorcycle operators.
The society has partnered with Co-operative Bank of Kenya to support members through savings mobilisation, access to credit facilities, share ownership and other financial services aimed at improving their economic welfare.
“The future of the boda boda sector depends on organisation, professionalism and responsible leadership. When riders work together, they can improve their income, support each other and contribute positively to the community,” remarked Mr Kirui.
The launch brought together boda boda operators and stakeholders from Ainamoi Constituency, including area Member of the County Assembly (MCA)for Kipchebor ward Dr Erick Bett, Co-operative Bank of Kenya officials, SACCO members and other partners, who pledged to promote road safety, strengthen compliance with government regulations and improve the welfare of motorcycle operators through organized cooperative societies.
By Kelox Mutai
