When a boda boda rider is involved in an accident with a vehicle, burning the vehicle or property might feel like a way to avenge.
But it isn’t. It is a criminal act, it destroys evidence, and it denies justice. Instead, those involved in the accident must face investigation, and possible trial. Courts must decide guilt, not angry crowds.
The National Transportation and Safety Authority must take responsibility. Continuous civil and safety education for boda boda operators is essential. Teach them the rules, teach them respect for road users, for traffic lights, for speed limits. But this is not only for the riders.
Motorists must also change their attitude. Pedestrians, cyclists and boda boda riders are not obstacles. They are people with lives, rights and families.
Slowing down when nearing a pedestrian crossing, allowing a boda boda enough space and giving way where necessary can reduce the high numbers of deaths and injuries.
Around 3,581 people died in traffic accidents between June 2024 and March 2025, a jump of about 10 per cent from the year before. In that same period, 8,874 people suffered serious injuries while 5,620 had lighter injuries.
If all of us honour the law by letting police investigate crashes, letting courts judge, respecting every road user then roads can grow safer. We don’t need the flame to find justice.
