More than 2,000 boda boda riders in Vihiga County received training on road safety, security and financial management during a sensitisation forum organised by the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) in partnership with Mogo Kenya, East Africa’s leading vehicle and smartphone financier.

The forum, held at the County Commissioner’s residence in Vihiga, brought together riders, county leaders, national government administrators and security agencies to address the safety, security and financial challenges facing the boda boda sector in the region.

Speaking as the chief guest, Raymond Omolo, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, lauded the partnership between BAK and its stakeholders, saying such initiatives are critical in promoting order, accountability and professionalism within the boda boda sector while safeguarding riders’ livelihoods.

“The boda boda sector is important because it connects people to their destinations, and it must be protected. Going forward, motorcycles held over minor offences will be released to their owners, and we urge every rider to take up insurance so that, in the event of an accident or theft, they are able to recover their losses and protect what they have worked hard to build,” said Mr. Omolo.

“We are also directing the registration of boda boda operators in every county to help filter out criminals hiding within the sector. Riders must collaborate with the OCS, the DCC and all security officers to curb insecurity and address emerging security challenges as they arise. I urge boda boda members to work closely with security agencies, chiefs and the wider community by sharing information on rogue individuals who use motorcycles to facilitate criminal activities. Security is a shared responsibility, and the Government will continue working with BAK and partners such as Mogo to protect both riders and the public,” he added.

Participants also received training on financial literacy and practical guidance on security measures aimed at reducing motorcycle theft and improving road safety.

BAK National Executive Chairman Kevin Mubadi said the Vihiga forum forms part of the association’s nationwide campaign to equip riders with practical knowledge that improves both their daily operations and long-term financial security.

“Many of our members lack information on simple issues that directly affect their work and finances. Bringing together security agencies and financial institutions under one roof gives riders practical solutions and access to the support they need, rather than just advice,” said Mr. Mubadi.

“We appreciate the continued partnership with Mogo Kenya and all the stakeholders who made today’s forum possible, and we remain committed to taking this initiative to more counties across the country.”

Mogo Kenya Head of Security Evans Nyakina said the company remains committed to supporting riders beyond financing by promoting their safety, security and financial wellbeing.

“Boda boda riders are at the heart of Kenya’s economy, and their safety and financial stability are just as important to us as the motorcycles we finance. Forums like this enable us to support riders beyond the point of sale by helping them protect their assets, improve their financial literacy and cultivate a culture of saving for the future,” he said.

The boda boda sector remains a key pillar of Kenya’s economy, generating an estimated KES 660 billion annually and contributing approximately 4.4 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The industry directly employs more than 2.5 million people, providing livelihoods for millions of families across the country.

According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), boda boda riders, passengers and pedestrians account for more than 65 per cent of the approximately 4,000 road fatalities recorded annually in Kenya. Road crashes cost the country an estimated 5 per cent of GDP, equivalent to more than KES 450 billion every year.

The Vihiga forum supports the implementation of Kenya’s National Road Safety Action Plan 2024–2028, which aims to reduce road deaths and serious injuries by half.

Through the initiative, BAK and Mogo Kenya say they are committed to building a safer, more secure and financially resilient boda boda sector across the country.