Govt set to roll out new guidelines for Boda Boda riders to curb lawlessness
Kenya’s Boda Boda sector is set to face tighter regulations as the government rolls out new measures aimed at professionalising the industry and improving safety.
Under the new rules, riders will undergo fresh registration, clearly indicating their designated operating areas, and will be required to wear distinct uniforms aligned with their location.
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The regulations also introduce stricter accountability at every boda boda stage. Each stage must now have a chairman who will be responsible for overseeing rider conduct. In cases where law-breaking incidents occur, the chairman can face arrest if they fail to identify those involved.
The riders were also warned against vandalism and urged to embrace road safety.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda, while addressing the media on Thursday, September 11, 2025, emphasised the need for individual accountability, saying, “How do you burn someone’s vehicle because one Boda Boda rider was hit? There is no solidarity in law. Law is for individuals.”
Riders will now need to belong to a registered group and have a stage chairman.
They will also receive a new registration number in addition to the NTSA-issued plate, which will indicate the county, sub-county, and passenger stage where they operate.
Also watch: Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet urges Boda Boda riders to embrace civility and government programs
Kevin Mubadi, president of the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya (BAK), explained that the registration process will begin immediately after all areas and stages have been mapped.
“If you won’t register, then leave the Boda Boda sector immediately. Chairman, if an incident happens in your area, we will hold you accountable if you don’t know who was involved,” he said.
Also watch: Police officer arrested after shooting dead two boda boda riders in Thika
The new measures come after a recent incident highlighting the need for stronger regulation.
A vehicle was torched on Thika Road following a collision with a Boda Boda rider.
The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya condemned the act as unacceptable and a threat to efforts aimed at professionalising the sector.
In a statement issued via its official X account, BAK National Executive Chairman Kevin Mubadi expressed sympathy for the injured rider but reiterated that violence and destruction of property will not be tolerated.
The new registration and uniform guidelines are part of broader efforts to curb crime, improve rider accountability, and ensure that boda boda operations align with legal and safety standards.
With a clear identification, proper uniforms, and accountable leadership at each stage, authorities hope to foster a safer environment for both riders and the public.
