Kwale boda boda riders warned against unlicensed operations

The police boss says many learn how to ride from their friends and end up operating without licences, increasing the risk of accidents.

Boda boda operators in Lunga Lunga, Kwale County, have been warned against lending their motorcycles to unlicensed people, as this increases the risk of accidents.

Lunga Lunga divisional police commander (OCPD) Peter Nzimbi issued the warning on Monday, noting that many people in the area learn how to ride from their friends.

Nzimbi added that many of Lunga Lunga's boda boda riders do not have licences since they do not acquire the skill professionally. He also said that about three-quarters of the accidents in the area are caused by boda boda riders.

"It is people without skills who cause road accidents as they are not aware of traffic rules. These people overtake and make U-turns where they are not supposed to," he told The Eastleigh Voice by phone.

"They are notorious for breaking traffic laws, resulting in accidents. We are going to work with traffic officers to ensure they learn road signs and traffic rules."

The OCPD urged people interested in the business to enrol in riding schools for their safety and that of the general public.

"The government is offering scholarships for short courses. If you go to relevant authorities as a group or individual, you can be supported to get a legal licence," he said.

He also noted that the operators can get insurance policies to protect themselves and their customers.

"We have seen cases where people have been forced to sell family lands to pay accident victims. This can be avoided if all operators register for insurance policies," he said.

Nzimbi further announced that a crackdown on unlicensed boda boda operators would soon be launched.

"Many schoolgoers have now taken to the boda boda business to pass the time. This contributes to an increase in accidents since they do not understand traffic rules," he said.

Data from the National Police Service for the May 2022–October 2023 period states that 9,996 people were directly affected by motorcycle crashes. Of that number, 2,384 were fatalities while 5,581 were serious injuries.