In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing road accidents involving motorcycle riders, Kenyan boda boda operators can now obtain full riding licenses by paying just KSh 100 per day.
This move is part of a collaborative effort between transport sector stakeholders to curb the rising cases of road carnage involving motorbike riders and their passengers.
Addressing Road Safety Challenges
Reports from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) indicate that Kenya has witnessed a high number of road fatalities, with motorcycle riders being among the most affected. The main cause of these accidents is attributed to the lack of proper road safety knowledge among boda boda operators, many of whom do not possess valid driving licenses.
To tackle this issue, the Automobile Association of Kenya (AA) and NTSA have launched the Licence na Mia initiative, which subsidizes the cost of rider training. This program covers essential aspects such as motorbike riding skills, road safety regulations, defensive driving, and emergency response, all aimed at making Kenyan roads safer.
A Target of One Million Licensed Riders
The initiative is a key component of the National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2028, which aims to train and license at least one million boda boda riders who currently operate without the required certification. The structured training ensures that riders are well-equipped to navigate roads safely, reducing accidents and fatalities.
Already, over 500 boda boda riders who committed to paying KSh 100 daily for 61 days have successfully completed their training and obtained licenses. This milestone is a testament to the program’s effectiveness in promoting road safety and compliance within the transport sector.
Tackling Corruption and Compliance Issues
According to AA Kenya CEO Francis Theuri, many boda boda riders join the transport industry informally, often learning through peer-to-peer training. This informal approach results in widespread non-compliance with road safety regulations, increasing the risk of accidents.
“The high cost of acquiring a driving license has discouraged many young riders from attending driving schools and safety training programs,” Theuri explained. “Instead, many opt to pay small bribes of KSh 50 or KSh 100 to county authorities to evade compliance checks, further fueling corruption.”
To counter this trend, Licence na Mia offers riders an affordable and structured alternative to obtain proper training. “Rather than risking their lives and engaging in bribery, riders can now invest the same amount in structured training that ensures compliance and road safety,” Theuri added.
A Step Towards Safer Roads
With the growing number of boda boda operators in Kenya, initiatives like Licence na Mia are crucial in fostering road safety awareness and reducing preventable accidents. By making licensing more accessible and affordable, stakeholders hope to create a culture of responsible riding and adherence to traffic rules, ultimately saving lives.
As the program continues to expand, more riders are expected to benefit, ensuring that Kenyan roads become safer for all users.
