Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced that the government is taking steps to restore order and discipline in the boda boda sector, amid growing public concern over rising criminal incidents associated with rogue operators.
Appearing before the Senate on Wednesday to respond to questions from legislators on various security matters, the CS confirmed that the sector has been infiltrated by criminal elements, particularly in the Western, Nyanza, and Nairobi regions.
He revealed that findings from the recently concluded Jukwaa la Usalama forums, which covered all 47 counties, highlighted significant challenges within the sector.
“One of the pressing issues drawing public attention is the violence perpetrated by some boda boda operators, including incidents of torching vehicles involved in accidents,” the CS stated.
While the sector contributes positively to the country, the CS noted that unregistered and unidentified riders exploit weak regulations to engage in criminal activities.
“The boda boda sector remains a vital pillar of Kenya’s transport economy, providing employment for thousands of youth. However, its rapid growth with minimal regulation has led to disorder and lawlessness,” he observed.
To address these challenges, Murkomen told the lawmakers that his Ministry, in collaboration with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and county governments, is working on a nationwide registration drive. The initiative aims to register all operators under SACCOs and allocate designated operating zones.
“The leadership of the SACCOs will enforce discipline and report rogue operators to the authorities,” he added, noting that the government is also exploring ways to incorporate their leaders into community policing efforts to enhance responsibility and aid in intelligence gathering.
He warned that individuals using the trade as a cover to engage in crime will face the full force of the law.
“Criminal elements who masquerade as boda boda operators will be prosecuted to protect the sector’s image and the public,” affirmed the Interior CS.
Murkomen reiterated that the government remains committed to promoting a safe, orderly, and sustainable boda boda industry that empowers the youth while upholding law and order across the country.
