- Government introduces fresh boda boda regulations after Nairobi meeting.
- Riders to wear county-specific uniforms and have unique IDs.
- Membership in SACCOs and chamas made mandatory.
- Certificate of good conduct, license, and safety gear required.
- Police warn against mob justice and lawlessness in the sector.
On Thursday, September 11, senior police officials sat down with leaders of the National Boda Boda Association in Nairobi. The session, chaired by Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda, was called to tackle rising insecurity, indiscipline, and mob justice linked to boda boda riders.
Under the new regulations, every rider must be at least 18 years old, registered, and possess a certificate of good conduct. They will also be required to own two helmets, hold a valid driving license, and operate motorcycles with unique identification numbers.
In addition, county-specific uniforms will be introduced. Each sub-county will have a different color, making it easier for the public and police to identify riders.
All boda boda riders will now be required to join Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) or stage chamas. According to Commander Seda, this will promote financial responsibility, strengthen regulation, and instill discipline in the sector.
He warned riders against interfering with accident investigations, stressing that law enforcement is strictly the role of the police and authorized agencies.
“There is no solidarity in the application of the law it applies to individuals. If one rider commits an offence, that rider alone will carry the responsibility,” Commander Seda said.
Boda-Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) chairperson Kevin Mbadi also issued a stern warning. He said torching vehicles or retaliating after accidents will no longer be tolerated.
“If a vehicle is torched in your area, the local leaders will be held accountable until they produce the culprits. Those responsible will face arrest,” Mbadi stated.
He added that criminals hiding behind boda bodas will be exposed once registration is complete.
To protect genuine riders, BAK has signed an MoU with a network of lawyers who will offer free legal services to members involved in road-related disputes. Mbadi urged riders to let police handle accident scenes and avoid taking justice into their own hands.
The new measures follow a wave of insecurity and crime involving boda boda riders across the country. Authorities now hope the strict reforms will restore order, safety, and professionalism in the sector
