Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has been chosen by leaders of various saccos and associations of over 2.5 million bodaboda and tuk-tuk riders as their patron.
The riders unanimously chose sonko as their patron in a key
meeting held at the former governor’s Mua residence in Machakos.
In his remarks, Sonko expressed commitment to helping Bodaboda
and Tuk-Tuk operators in Kenya.
The former governor said he would put special attention to
addressing issues related to government institutions, county governments, law
enforcement, parliament, and insurance agencies.
He said the long delays in claim payments, as well as challenges
in accessing spare parts, will be among his key agendas.
“From now on, we shall engage with the government, its
departments, county governments, insurance agencies, and financial institutions
that provide loans to bodaboda operators to address spare part shortages and
other pressing challenges,” Sonko said.
The leaders expressed confidence that the former governor
would champion their interests and lead them in addressing some of the
challenges facing the sector.
During the meeting, the group discussed the Public Transport
(Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023, which is sponsored by Kakamega Senator Dr.
Boni Khalwale.
The proposed law seeks to introduce new regulations on the
registration, operation, and management of bodaboda services at the county
level.
The association, however, raised concerns over certain
provisions in the bill, which they believe could negatively impact their
operations.
They emphasized the need for public participation, which will
factor in their voices before the Bill becomes law.
Sonko pledged to meet Senator Boni Khalwale to discuss the
challenges faced by bodaboda and tuk-tuk operators in the proposed bill, among
other issues.
Nehemiah Kiwa, Chairman of the Bodaboda & Tuk-Tuk
Transport Union of Kenya, stressed that the time had come for the government to
address the needs of the 2.5 million riders who played a crucial role in electing
the current administration.
“We need our fair share in both the national and county
governments. We need to be heard and respected. We are confident that Sonko
will help us,” Kiwa stated.
Charles Gichira, Chairman of the Bodaboda Association,
emphasized the need to reform and professionalize the sector, urging the
government to stop viewing riders as criminals.
“With Sonko on our side, the 2.5 million bodaboda and
tuk-tuk riders can be assured that our welfare, security, and concerns will be
addressed,” he said.
The groups are also concerned about the lack of funding for rider training despite the transport sector generating significant revenue.
“We are leading in road accidents in Kenya because we lack
proper training. We need structured training programs, and we believe Sonko can
help us achieve that,” said Onyango, a bodaboda leader.
Calvis Okumu, Chairman of the Digital Riders and Delivery
Association, highlighted the discrimination faced by digital bodaboda
operators.
“We are often forced to park our delivery bikes far from
estates simply because we are bodaboda riders. This discrimination must stop.
Sonko, we need your help to ensure fair treatment for all riders,” Okumu urged.
The groups agreed tod pick a six-member steering committee
headed by Nehemiah Kiwa to oversee the daily operations of the association
under Sonko’s leadership as patron.
