Boda boda riders in Kisii County face fresh warnings over the growing practice of carrying more passengers than their motorcycles can safely handle, with local leaders warning that the habit puts lives at risk.
The Kisii County Boda Boda Riders and Owners Association announced it will launch a countywide crackdown on riders found carrying excess passengers to help reduce road accidents.
Association representative Jared Oirere said riders have agreed to strengthen safety measures at the stage, ward, and sub-county levels.
“From next Monday, we will have an operation in Kisii. Anyone found carrying excess passengers will be arrested and taken to a police station,” Oirere said.
Crowded events
He noted that the move follows growing concerns over riders overloading their motorcycles, particularly during funerals and other crowded events when transport demand surges.
Kevin Mubadi, from the National Executive of the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya, also urged riders to prioritize safety over profit. He cautioned riders against speeding and overloading, reminding them that a single careless decision can put multiple lives in danger and that their motorcycles are livelihoods worth protecting through responsible riding.
The safety campaign comes as operators face mounting financial pressure to repay motorcycle loans, cover maintenance costs, and support their families. Addressing these challenges, Mogo Head of Public Relations Becky Ngigi highlighted the importance of financial literacy to help riders manage income and debt. She clarified that loan-financed motorcycles are repossessed only when customers miss payments without communicating with the lender.
Meanwhile, Bajaj after-sales engineer Geoffrey Kemboi shared details about the company’s corporate social responsibility program, “Pocket, Heart, and Mind,” which supports riders through free motorcycle servicing and recreational activities like football. Kemboi emphasized that while regular maintenance is vital for road safety, many riders struggle to budget for servicing.
Organizers also reminded riders to exercise extreme caution when transporting children and to guard against exposing school-going passengers to abuse or safety hazards.
