Mlolongo – Syokimau Bodaboda Association chairman Alex Mutuku (c) addressing reporters at Mlolongo in Machakos county on September 14, 2025./GEORGE OWITILeaders of boda boda operators have urged the government to allow more time for riders to comply with the newly announced sector regulations.
Speaking in Mlolongo, Machakos County, on Sunday, Mlolongo–Syokimau Boda Boda Association chairman Alex Mutuku welcomed the government’s directives, saying they would help streamline the industry and weed out criminals posing as genuine riders.
“We support the directives by the government on the new regulations. They would help differentiate criminals from genuine boda boda operators. But we urge the government to give us more time to reorganise ourselves. The regulations shouldn’t be enforced immediately,” Mutuku said.
The government recently unveiled a raft of measures aimed at restoring order and accountability in the sector. They include fresh registration of all riders within specified operating areas, county-specific uniforms with identification numbers, mandatory SACCO membership, and appointment of stage chairmen who will be held accountable for their members’ conduct.
Other requirements are proof of insurance, possession of a valid boda boda licence, a certificate of good conduct, and at least two helmets — one for the rider and one for passengers. Riders will also be limited to carrying only one passenger, except for tricycles, which may carry two.
In addition, all motorcycles will be fitted with tracking devices, while riders must undergo training on safe riding techniques, traffic laws, customer care, and security awareness.
Mutuku said riders need more time to acquire valid driving licences, certificates of good conduct, and uniforms. He proposed that uniforms be introduced at the sub-county level instead of county-wide for easier identification.
“Let’s protect and respect our job. It’s this job that feeds our families. Let’s abide by the law and desist from engaging in criminal activities,” he urged, condemning the practice of torching vehicles after accidents.
He also encouraged riders to cooperate with security agencies and volunteer information to improve safety.
Mutuku noted that many members in Mlolongo had already complied with several requirements, including SACCO membership, registration in stages, and use of QR codes on motorcycles. He added that most riders in the area had valid driving licences obtained through proper training
