Partnership Formed to Tackle Insecurity of Boda Boda Operators in Kilifi

By Mbungu Harrison

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

Mogo Kenya has partnered with Auto Industries Limited to support security efforts in the boda boda sector amid rising concerns over criminal activity in Kilifi County.

The initiative saw the donation of a motorcycle to boda boda leadership in Malindi to enhance community surveillance and coordination.

The bike will support local leaders in mobilising riders and working closely with security agencies to identify and deter criminal elements, particularly those operating after dark.

Speaking during the event organised by Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) in Malindi, security principal secretary Raymond Omollo urged riders to collaborate with law enforcement to root out criminals posing as boda boda operators.

“I urge boda boda operators to work closely with security officers so that criminal elements hiding within the sector can be identified and dealt with. This will help restore public trust and protect genuine riders,” he said.

Boda boda leaders from the area vowed to collaborate with the security agencies in bid to weed out criminal elements tarnishing the sector’s name.

“Legitimate riders operate from recognised stages and depend on this work for their livelihoods. The problem lies with criminals who acquire motorcycles for illegal activities such as muggings and phone theft. We must work with the police to protect the integrity of our sector,” said BAK national chairman Kevin Mubadi.

The security intervention comes amid a reported rise in crime across parts of the county including Malindi, Mtwapa and adjust areas where gangs have been linked to armed robberies, drug trafficking and attacks on pedestrians and businesses.

Alongside the security initiative, more than 500 boda boda riders underwent training on road safety and financial literacy.

The programme, led by Mogo Kenya in partnership with BAK and Auto Industries Ltd, focused on responsible riding, compliance with traffic regulations, and basic financial management.

Fernandes Kariuki, Mogo product marketing manager, said the initiative was designed to protect both livelihoods and public safety.

“The boda boda sector is a critical pillar of Kenya’s economy. However, a few criminal elements are undermining its reputation. We are committed to working with partners and authorities to strengthen safety while empowering riders economically,” he said.

Participants were also trained on insurance awareness to help manage medical costs in the event of accidents, and encouraged to adopt saving practices, including joining SACCOs and planning for long-term financial stability.

Additional support included free motorcycle servicing and reflector jackets to improve visibility and safety on the roads.

According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) boda boda riders, passengers and pedestrians account for over 65 per cent of the approximately 4,000 road fatalities recorded annually in Kenya.

Road crashes cost the country an estimated five (5) per cent of GDP, equivalent to over Ksh450 billion each year.

The county remains one of the high-risk areas, with identified accident blackspots including Vipingo Road and Jiwe Tanga.

The initiative aligns with Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan (2024–2028) which aims to significantly reduce road deaths and serious injuries.

The boda boda sector contributes an estimated Ksh660 billion annually to the economy and supports over 2.5 million livelihoods making it a critical sector for both economic growth and public safety interventions.