Naivasha: Poor eyesight, coupled with a lack of training, has been cited as a major cause of the increasing number of accidents involving boda boda operators across the country. This follows worrying statistics showing that by the end of September this year, Kenya had recorded 3,586 road fatalities, compared to just over 3,000 during the same period last year.
According to Kenya News Agency, poor vision among motorcyclists continues to be a leading contributor to road fatalities nationwide. Samuel Mbeche from Sight Aid International highlighted this issue during a free eye check-up event for boda boda riders in Naivasha. The event was part of a road safety awareness campaign organised in partnership with Inchcape Kenya, NTSA, and Post Bank, aimed at addressing safety concerns within the rapidly growing sector.
Maryanne Gathogo, the Managing Director of Inchcape Kenya, stated that the company had provided over 200 riders with high-quality safety gear to help curb rising fatalities. Gathogo noted that the initiative seeks to reach more than 20 per cent of all boda boda riders, particularly those in both urban and rural areas who lack access to adequate road safety training.
Lawrence Mbagala from the Private Riders Association observed that despite the critical role the boda boda sector plays in Kenya's economy, inadequate training and substandard safety gear have contributed significantly to the rising number of deaths. Mbagala emphasized the importance of education among riders, urging them to exercise caution-especially during the festive season-while promoting the motto 'all the gear, all the time' for all road users.
Cyrus Mutisya, Head of Strategic Relationships at Post Bank Kenya, called for enhanced financial literacy to help boda boda operators invest in their future. Mutisya noted that the bank has developed tailor-made financial products for the boda boda sector, recognizing its growing influence in Kenya's economy and its contribution of billions of shillings each year.
The government is implementing the National Road Safety Action Plan (2024-2025) to streamline the transport sector and tackle the alarming rise in road carnage across the country. As part of the plan, the boda boda sector will be formalized to ensure greater regulatory compliance with traffic laws and improved rider management.
Additionally, the plan proposes that all operators wear distinct uniforms based on their designated operating stages, complete with visible registration identification numbers. Furthermore, all boda boda riders and their passengers will be required to use certified helmets, in line with data showing that up to 98 per cent of accidents are linked to unsafe user behavior.