Boda Boda Riders Threaten Nationwide Protests
The Senate had already green-lighted the Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill of 2023, which introduces strict rules, including a 50-kilogram limit on motorcycle luggage.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BSAK) has threatened to stage nationwide demonstrations should the National Assembly pass the Public Transport Bill 2023.
The Senate had already green-lighted the Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill of 2023, which introduces strict rules. However, the bill, backed by Senator Boni Khalwale, has sparked growing opposition nationwide, with boda boda riders criticizing it as a threat to their livelihoods.
On Thursday, February 20, BSAK National Chairman Kevin Mubadi criticized the bill as "oppressive" and warned that it could lead to corruption.
A major issue of debate is the proposed 50-kilogram limit on motorcycle luggage. Due to Kenya's lack of adequate infrastructure, Mubadi contended that enforcing such a rule would be impractical.
Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BSAK) National Chairman Kevin Mubadi during a past press briefing. /FAMOUS NAKURU
"We are wondering, will these MPs provide weighing machines along every road so that every time a police officer catches me will say that the bike surpassed two kilograms, another passed the 20-kilogram mark? We are rejecting unless they bring the bill back here for public participation,'" said Mubadi.
The bill continues to spark debate, with several contentious clauses drawing attention. One provision suggests a Ksh20,000 fine for riding on pedestrian walkways, a rule that has raised concerns among riders.
Another disputed aspect is the establishment of county boards to oversee boda boda operations, with governors appointing the chairs. Additionally, the proposal to install trackers on all motorcycles has fueled privacy concerns within the industry.
The association is urging the immediate withdrawal of the bill, advocating for a transparent and inclusive process that involves boda boda representatives, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
"Anyone who dares to pass that bill will go home direct! We will not even wait for 2027, we are ready and we are the third government; we have the national government, county government, na boda boda government,” said BSAK Nairobi Chairman, Samuel Waraga.
Last month, the Senate Roads and Transportation Committee proposed several amendments to the Public Transportation (Motorcycle Regulations) Bill, 2023. The revised law would require boda bodas to display number plates on both the front and back, similar to regular vehicles. This measure aims to enhance identification and ensure operator accountability.
Additionally, motorcycles will be assigned specific colours to distinguish public service vehicles from private ones.
Khalwale, the bill's sponsor, stated that its goal is to establish a legal framework for regulating motorcycles and three-wheelers, commonly known as tuk-tuks, at the county level.
"The principal objective of this Bill is to put in place a legal framework to regulate the use of motorcycles (boda bodas) and three-wheelers (tuk-tuks) in Kenya, by introducing new provisions for their registration, operation, and safety at the county level," reads the bill in part.
The bill also mandates regular inspections to ensure boda bodas comply with safety standards. This means that motorcycles used for public transport will be classified as public service vehicles and must undergo inspections and registration at the county level.
A key aspect of the proposed regulations is a three-year grace period for owners of older motorcycles to meet the new requirements, while all new motorcycles must display front number plates.
To help law enforcement differentiate commercial motorcycles from private ones, boda bodas will be marked with specific colour bands designated by county authorities. This measure will enable police to easily identify motorcycles operating as public service vehicles.
Additionally, the bill grants county governments the authority to establish their motorcycle regulations to address local needs while maintaining a uniform approach to public safety.
All eyes will be on the National Assembly to decide the next steps in a move that could affect the futures of more than 2 million people the sub-sector has employed across the country.
