Boda bodas are a popular means of transport across the country and they continue to gain popularity as they can evade traffic jams and access places where other traditional means of transport such as taxis and matatus cannot.
Official data shows that the National Transport and Safety Authority registered 285,203 motorcycles in 2021 compared to the 186,434 registered in 2017.
During the review period, the highest growth was recorded when 356,603 motorcycles were registered.
Most people cannot imagine that bicycles are still being used as boda bodas in some Kenyan towns.
However, in Thika, bicycles are a common means of transport.
Walking through the town and its environs, you will see bicycles parked alongside motorcycles at the boda bodastages waiting for customers.
Kevin Maina, a bicycle taxi rider, told KNA that bicycles as a mode of transport are more popular than motorcycles, this is because the bicycle transport business is a source of livelihood for a majority of rural people who do not have the resources to purchase motorcycles.
“For men like me who do not have any other sources of income, this business enables us to earn our daily bread. Besides, commuters prefer our services due to our prices that are significantly lower than those of the motorcycle and we offer more security in terms of safety,” Maina said.
David Wanjau, a resident of Kisii estate in Makongeni, Thika, concurs that indeed bicycle taxis are safer compared to motorcycles.
“Going by statistics, there are a lot of accidents related to motorcycles, and for this reason,most people here prefer to be ferried by bicycles. This choice is reinforced by the belief that motorcycle operators are careless and love speeding,” Wanjau said.
Additionally, Wanjau noted that the few accidents involving bicycles do not cause as much damage.
Charles Kimani, another bicycle taxi operator said there were places bicycles could access that motorcycles cannot.
He said there was dependence on the distance and luggage.
“As Thika residents, we understand the terrain and we can very well access narrow routes that may not be possible for motorcycles.
The fare is also dependent on the distance and luggage. We charge Sh20 for short distances the price can go up to Sh200 for longer distances. I make between Sh400-800 on a good day,” Kimani said.
