Fresh Storm Hits Boda Boda Sector as Parliament Backs Tough New Bill
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale had attempted to pull back the proposal, citing mass disapproval.
“The bill has drawn sharp criticism from the public and key stakeholders,” Parliament acknowledged in a statement released on Tuesday, July 22.
Senator Khalwale formally requested the withdrawal of the bill through a letter dated March 7, 2025, which was forwarded by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
However, Parliament revealed:
“Despite this appeal, the Speaker of the National Assembly ruled that the Bill will proceed, after a majority vote rejected the withdrawal request.”
Khalwale’s Boda Boda Bill Hits Wall as Public Protest Forces Senate Retreat
What the Bill Proposes
The proposed legislation aims to streamline operations, improve safety, and introduce regulation at the county level. According to the bill:
“County governments will be mandated to form County Motorcycle Transport and Safety Boards, responsible for licensing and oversight.”
These boards will oversee the training, registration, and conduct of all boda boda operators.
Additionally, every boda boda rider will be required to join a SACCO, attend mandatory training, and learn safety measures, etiquette, and emergency response skills.
The bill also introduces harsh penalties. One of the key proposals includes:
“A fine of Ksh20,000 for any boda boda rider using a pedestrian walkway.”
Worse still, riders found colluding to cause harm may face:
“A Ksh100,000 fine or a one-year prison sentence.”
Bomet Bodaboda Association of Kenya members
Divided Reactions Across the Nation
While some groups back the regulation, others strongly oppose it.
“The Kenya Bureau of Standards and Digital Boda Association support the Bill with proposed amendments,” Parliament stated.
One ride-hailing company has also thrown its weight behind the bill but emphasized the need for revisions.
However, opposition is mounting.
“The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya has outright rejected the Bill, calling it harmful to livelihoods,” Parliament revealed.
What’s Next?
Parliament has assured Kenyans that the next step will be public participation forums to gather feedback and make necessary amendments.
“We want to include every voice and make sure the final law is fair and practical,” the statement concluded.
Boda Boda Riders in Panic as Parliament Ignores Plea to Drop Regulation Bill
Still, tension lingers in the boda boda sector, with thousands of riders waiting anxiously for the bill’s final outcome.
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Fresh Storm Hits Boda Boda Sector as Parliament Backs Tough New Bill
