Mogo Kenya, in partnership with the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya, has trained more than 1,000 boda boda riders in Nakuru County on road safety, in a bid to curb rising road accidents and fatalities.
Promoting Safer Riding Practices
The training forum, held in Naivasha, brought together riders from across the county and focused on safe riding practices, compliance with traffic regulations, and awareness of insurance options to help manage accident-related medical costs.
Participants also received financial literacy and road safety materials to reinforce learning beyond the session.
Practical Support for Riders
Beyond training, the initiative provided tangible support to improve riders’ working conditions. Participants benefited from free motorcycle servicing and bike washing, reflector jackets to enhance visibility, and essential supplies including foodstuffs.
Additionally, the association received operational support in the form of laptops and printers to boost efficiency. In a notable highlight, Naivasha Boda Association Chairman John Gitonga was awarded a new BM125 Heavy Duty motorcycle donated by Auto Industries Ltd to support coordination efforts.
Addressing Broader Sector Challenges
The session also tackled key socio-economic issues affecting riders, including savings through SACCOs, pension awareness, social protection, and behavioural change aimed at improving long-term livelihoods.
Road Safety Crisis in Kenya
According to the National Transport and Safety Authority, boda boda riders, passengers, and pedestrians account for over 65% of the roughly 4,000 annual road fatalities in Kenya.
However, underreporting suggests actual deaths could exceed 12,000 annually. Road crashes cost the country about 5% of its GDP—over KES 450 billion each year. Counties most affected include Nakuru, Nairobi, Kiambu, Kisumu, Machakos, Kakamega, Makueni, and Kericho.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
Speaking at the event, Fernades Kariuki said the initiative underscores Mogo’s commitment to supporting the safety and sustainability of the boda boda sector.
He noted that while the company has enabled many riders to access motorcycles and smartphones through financing, accidents often reverse these gains due to medical costs and income loss.
BAK National Chairman Kevin Mubadi emphasized the importance of partnerships in promoting responsible riding and financial preparedness among operators.
Aligning with National Safety Goals
The initiative aligns with Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan (2024–2028), which aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by 50% in line with the UN Second Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030).
A Critical Economic Sector
Kenya’s boda boda industry remains a vital economic pillar, generating an estimated KES 600 billion annually and contributing about 4.4% to GDP. The sector employs over 2.5 million people, supporting millions of households nationwide.
Through this initiative, Mogo Kenya and BAK aim to enhance road safety while strengthening the sustainability and growth of one of the country’s most important transport sectors.