Former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has made a grand return to the public spotlight after being unanimously elected as the patron of boda boda and tuk-tuk Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (Saccos) and operational associations, representing over 2.5 million members nationwide, according to sector estimates.
Sonko, known for his flamboyant style and philanthropy, has largely stayed away from politics since the courts upheld his impeachment. However, his new role sees him embracing a non-political leadership position, as he pledges to champion the rights and welfare of riders across Kenya.
Sonko’s election took place at his Mua farm home in Machakos during a meeting where sector representatives voiced concerns over the proposed Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill 2023. The bill, sponsored by Kakamega Senator Dr Boni Khalwale, seeks to regulate the registration, operation, and management of boda boda services at the county level. Riders fear that certain provisions in the bill could negatively impact their operations. They have called on the Senate to suspend its debate until all stakeholders are consulted and their views incorporated.
In his acceptance speech, Sonko vowed to advocate for the interests of boda boda and tuk-tuk operators, promising to engage the national government, county governments, law enforcement agencies, and insurance companies to address their longstanding grievances. “We shall work closely with all relevant institutions to ensure boda boda operators receive fair treatment, timely insurance claim payments, and access to affordable spare parts,” Sonko stated. He also pledged to hold discussions with Senator Khalwale regarding the contentious clauses in the proposed bill.
Nehemiah Kiwa, Chairman of the Boda Boda & Tuk-Tuk Transport Union of Kenya, stressed the need for government support and an end to profiling riders as criminals, reminding authorities that boda boda riders played a key role in electing the current administration. “We want our fair share in this government,” Kiwa declared.
Charles Gichira of the Boda Boda Association urged professionalization, with support from rider Onyango, who added, “We lead in road accidents because we lack structured training. Despite the transport sector generating huge revenue, funds never reach us. With Sonko on our side, we hope to change that.”
To ensure riders’ concerns are addressed, a six-member steering committee, chaired by Nehemiah Kiwa, will oversee the daily affairs of the Boda Boda & Tuk-Tuk Transport Union of Kenya under Sonko’s broader leadership of the sector.
Digital boda boda riders also raised concerns, with Calvis Okumu of the Digital Riders and Delivery Association highlighting specific discrimination. “We are often forced to park our delivery bikes far from estates simply because we are boda boda riders. We need equal access and believe Sonko can help,” Okumu urged.
With Sonko now at the helm, boda boda and tuk-tuk operators are optimistic that their long-standing challenges will be addressed. His influence and experience in governance, they believe, will help bring meaningful reforms to the sector and ensure fair treatment for all riders.
