By P, KNA
Leaders of the boda boda sector from across West Pokot County have raised concern over the growing insecurity and operational challenges affecting riders in the area.
The meeting followed three disturbing incidents that have heightened anxiety within the sector.
In one case, a rider was attacked with a panga and his motorcycle stolen. The bike was later recovered thanks to a tracking device installed on it.
In another tragic incident, a rider was shot with an arrow and lost his life.
A third operator was assaulted using blunt weapons, though his motorcycle was not taken.
The attacks have exposed the vulnerability of riders who operate in remote and poorly secured areas.
The boda boda industry remains a vital economic lifeline in West Pokot, employing an estimated 20,000 people.
It provides jobs to many who were previously unemployed and also supplements income for those in formal employment.
Due to poor road networks across large parts of the county, motorcycles are the most reliable and accessible mode of transport, often preferred over vehicles and traditional donkey transport.
Riders transport passengers, farm produce, water, and even serve as emergency responders and makeshift ambulances during medical crises.
The sector has established organized leadership structures focusing on welfare and security matters. However, the leaders now say numerous challenges persist.
Speaking during a meeting with the riders, county commissioner, David Saruni, condemned the recent attacks targeting boda boda operators and conveyed his condolences to the family of the deceased rider.
He described the incidents as criminal acts that threaten public safety and assured the affected families of government support.
Saruni appealed for calm among operators and residents, urging them not to take the law into their own hands.
He confirmed that security teams had been deployed to restore order and directed police to intensify investigations and pursue all leads to apprehend a key suspect, who remains at large.
Augustine Mengich, Chairman of the Boda Boda Association in West Pokot Sub-County, noted that security levels remain alarmingly low and that brutality against riders has become rampant in recent months.
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between riders, police, and other security agencies to curb theft and harassment, particularly from criminals suspected to be entering the county from outside.
Peter Mnangat, the County Head of Security for the Boda Boda Association, echoed these concerns and called for close collaboration with security agencies to help them with the challenges they face.
During the deliberations, boda leaders also addressed internal discipline and road safety concerns. They resolved to remove high-pitched horns and sports lights from motorcycles, citing noise pollution and interference with visibility for other road users.
They further appealed to the Traffic Base Commander to review certain roadblocks that riders claim has become a burden.
On matters of public health, the leaders requested the Ministry of Health to dispatch representatives to educate riders on the Social Health Authority (SHA) program, so they that can help disseminate information to hard-to-reach communities.
Given their role in emergency response and accident cases, the riders said understanding health coverage systems would enhance their effectiveness.
The association also called on the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to conduct sensitization forums in West Pokot to promote responsible road usage.
Additionally, they appealed to both national and county governments to install CCTV cameras at entry and exit points of major towns and strategic areas to strengthen security surveillance.
West Pokot Traffic Base Commander Gerald Naibei urged riders to uphold traffic regulations including enrolling in accredited driving schools to acquire proper licensing and road safety knowledge.
He reminded them of their responsibility as members of the public to assist in lawful arrests where necessary, but cautioned against mob justice.
He encouraged vigilance and closer cooperation with security agencies as part of a broader public-private partnership in community policing.
Police officers present urged riders to ensure that suspects apprehended are handed over to authorities, so that the law can take its course and that firm legal action will be taken against offenders.
They assured the sector of continued support in tracking and recovering stolen motorcycles and goods.
Meanwhile, safeguarding the boda boda sector is not only about protecting motorcycles, but also about securing the livelihoods of thousands of families, who depend on the industry across the country.