In a remarkable show of economic transformation and grassroots entrepreneurship, a group of boda boda riders from Isinya, Kajiado County, has taken a bold step towards financial growth by acquiring a 14-seater matatu, expanding their operations from motorcycle transport to long-distance public service vehicle services.
Operating under the banner of Isinya Boda Boda Sacco, the group secured the new matatu through a Chama Investment loan from Equity Bank’s Isinya branch. The vehicle will serve passengers on the Nairobi-Mombasa route under the Naekana Sacco fleet, marking the group’s entry into mainstream transport services.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Sacco Chairman Patrick Ng’ang’a expressed deep appreciation for the support the group has received from Equity Bank since 2019.
“Equity bank has been good to us. We introduced ourselves to the bank when we were a small group of 40 operating at Stage Moja here in Isinya. They embraced us as members, trained us on savings and investment, and now have given us a loan to buy this matatu,” said Ng’ang’a.
He added that many Sacco members have accessed individual loans from the bank, allowing them to expand their personal ventures and significantly improve their livelihoods.
Equity Bank has praised the group’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to financial growth. Benson Githae, Nairobi East Regional Relationship Manager for Asset Finance at Equity, lauded the achievement.
“We are here to celebrate these industrious boda boda riders and this major milestone in their investment journey. We will continue enhancing this Chama Investment Loan product, which targets micro-entrepreneurs in groups who wish to invest collectively,” he stated.
Equity Bank Kenya’s Senior Relationship Manager for Pamoja Banking, Annrita Muchiri, reiterated the bank’s mission to uplift small businesses through financial literacy and inclusive banking.
“We will continue to train boda boda riders and other investment groups for women and youth on financial literacy, especially in areas such as savings, investments, and debt management,” said Muchiri.
Grace Gworo, the Isinya branch manager, urged the group to remain focused and take advantage of additional financial services offered by the bank, including insurance premium financing and agricultural and livestock loans.
The acquisition of the matatu marks a significant milestone for the Isinya Boda Boda Sacco. It symbolizes not only economic advancement for the group’s members but also highlights the role of inclusive banking in driving grassroots empowerment.
As the matatu hits the road on the Nairobi-Mombasa route, it carries more than just passengers — it carries the hopes and aspirations of a community rewriting its economic story through collective action and strategic partnerships.