Kenyan Boda Boda Riders Threaten Strike Over Controversial Bill

The Boda Boda Association of Kenya is preparing for a nationwide strike in response to the proposed Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill, 2023. The bill, which aims to enforce stricter regulations within the boda boda sector, has sparked outrage among riders who argue that the proposed measures could threaten their livelihoods and are impractical for the industry.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Bonny Khalwale, was debated in the Senate in January 2025 but still requires approval from the National Assembly and presidential assent before becoming law. If passed, the legislation would bring significant changes to the boda boda industry, which consists of over two million motorcycles and contributes approximately KES 1 billion ($7.7 million) daily to the economy, supporting 1.4 million households.

Industry Concerns Over Harsh Regulations

The proposed law outlines a series of operational changes, including mandatory employment contracts for riders, compulsory protective gear such as helmets and reflective vests, and a limit of one passenger per trip. Additionally, it prohibits motorcycles from carrying passengers with heavy loads and requires all boda bodas used for public transport to have commercial insurance and tracking devices. Riders have strongly opposed the tracking requirement, viewing it as a means of government surveillance and an additional financial burden.

One of the most contentious aspects of the bill is the introduction of heavy fines and possible jail terms for violations. Under the proposed law, riding on pavements, pedestrian walkways, or against traffic on one-way streets would result in a KES 20,000 ($154) fine, six months in jail, or both. Additionally, boda boda operators could face criminal liability if they knowingly transport a passenger who intends to commit a crime. Critics argue that this clause is too vague and could lead to wrongful arrests.

Another significant concern is the penalty for intimidation and violence. If riders are found guilty of ganging up to threaten or attack others—particularly in the aftermath of an accident—they could be fined KES 100,000 ($772), sentenced to a year in jail, or both. The Boda Boda Association of Kenya has described the bill as discriminatory and unworkable, warning that it could devastate an industry that millions rely on for employment.

The association argues that the legislation disproportionately benefits corporate entities and app-based ride-hailing services while disadvantaging informal operators. Instead of punitive measures, riders are calling for government subsidies on insurance costs and investment in training programs to enhance road safety.

Government’s Stand on Boda Boda Regulation

Supporters of the bill insist that tighter regulations are necessary to address the disorder within the boda boda sector. Official data reveals that in 2023 alone, boda bodas were responsible for over 4,000 fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for reforms to improve road safety.

The regulation of boda boda operations has been a politically sensitive issue for years. During his 2022 presidential campaign, William Ruto urged law enforcement to ease crackdowns on boda boda riders, acknowledging the industry’s crucial economic role. Now, his administration faces a difficult decision—backing the bill could alienate a key voter base, while opposing it might suggest a lenient stance on road safety concerns.

As the bill moves to the National Assembly for further debate, the future of Kenya’s boda boda industry hangs in the balance. Whether the government will push for amendments or approve the bill in its current form remains to be seen.