Boda boda association condemns Makau Mutua’s ban remarks
The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK) has sharply criticised Makau Mutua, President William Ruto’s senior advisor on constitutional affairs, over his recent call to ban boda bodas from Kenya’s major cities and towns.
In a statement posted on X on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Mutua described boda bodas as contributors to “chaos, illegality, terrible aesthetics, and indiscipline” on the country’s roads.
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He further argued that modern cities should not accommodate what he termed “urban disorder,” claiming the sector undermines the image and functionality of Kenya’s urban spaces.
“I am convinced that all boda bodas should be banned from the streets of all Kenya’s major cities and towns,” said Mutua. His remarks sparked immediate backlash, igniting fresh debate on the role of boda bodas in the country’s transport ecosystem.
Boda boda statement
The Boda Boda Association of Kenya responded swiftly, demanding a public apology from Mutua.
In a statement addressed to Mutua, the association termed his comments reckless, inconsiderate, and an attack on the livelihoods of over 2 million Kenyans who depend on the motorcycle taxi sector.
“You need to apologise. We strongly condemn the recent statement by Prof. Makau Mutua calling for the banning of all boda bodas from Kenya’s cities and towns,” part of the association’s statement read.
“Such remarks are deeply inconsiderate, especially coming from a senior advisor in a government that champions the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA)—a model that places the common mwananchi at the heart of economic growth,” the post continued.
According to BAK, the boda boda industry is not merely a transport solution but a critical economic pillar. The association noted that for millions of Kenyan families, especially youth and low-income earners, the sector provides daily income, food, school fees, and healthcare.
While acknowledging existing challenges such as safety risks and regulatory gaps, the BAK emphasised that solutions should focus on structured engagement rather than outright bans. The association supports ongoing legislative reforms aimed at improving safety and professionalism within the sector.
Proposed bill
The Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill no. 38 of 2023, sponsored by Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, is set for its second reading in Parliament.
The proposed law seeks to enforce strict measures, including limiting riders to one adult passenger, mandating the use of safety gear, banning loads over 50 kg, and regulating parking zones.
If passed, the law will also require riders to obtain valid licenses, undergo training in traffic laws, and maintain safety standards, including providing standard helmets and reflective jackets for passengers.
BAK insists that meaningful reforms must involve the riders, urging leaders like Mutua to engage the sector constructively and uphold the principles of empowerment under the BETA agenda.
As the debate unfolds, the boda boda industry remains at the centre of Kenya’s socio-economic fabric, making the conversation about its future not just a policy issue but a matter of national livelihood.
