President William Ruto has hosted national officials of boda boda riders at State House, Nairobi.
The visit to the State House comes barely two weeks after Ruto's Constitutional Affairs Advisor, Makau Mutua, made controversial remarks targeting the sector.
Makau called for a ban on boda bodas in all major towns.
But according to Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya, Makau's remarks contradicted the government’s ambitious Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which places ordinary citizens at the centre of economic growth.
In their view, boda boda is not just a mode of transport but a lifeline for over two million Kenyan families who rely on the industry for their livelihood.
They further noted that the sector is critical, as it plays a significant role in creating employment and sustaining local economies, especially among the youth and low-income earners.
The boda boda sector in Kenya is a significant part of the country's economy, providing employment and transportation services, particularly in urban areas and rural regions with limited infrastructure.
It is a major source of income for many Kenyans, especially the youth, and also contributes to the economy through fuel taxes and other related activities.
However, the sector faces challenges related to safety, regulation, and sustainability.
It contributes significantly to Kenya's GDP, with some estimates placing it at 4.4 per cent. The sector also generates substantial revenue through fuel taxes, with the government estimated to collect approximately Sh60 billion annually.
They provide convenient and affordable transportation, particularly in areas with poor road infrastructure or high traffic congestion.
