Likoni boda boda riders receive Sh9m boost as Joho calls for end to police harassment

Boda boda operators in Likoni, Mombasa, have received more than Sh9 million in financial support from national and county leaders, with Mining Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho urging security officers to let riders earn a living without unnecessary harassment.

The funding is intended to support the sector’s growth, improve riders’ livelihoods and facilitate training and certification for operators.

President William Ruto contributed Sh2 million to the initiative, while Joho gave Sh1 million and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir contributed Sh1.5 million. Contributions from other leaders brought the total to more than Sh9 million, according to the organisers.

Joho called on security officers to allow riders to conduct their businesses without undue interference, while reminding operators to observe traffic regulations and maintain discipline.

“I have heard you say that you do not want to be harassed by the police. I am telling the Deputy County Commissioner to allow these boda boda riders to do their work without interference,” Joho said.

He, however, challenged riders to comply with road safety rules, saying discipline was essential to their operations.

Governor Nassir said boda boda operators play an important role in supporting families, connecting communities and facilitating business activity.

He described the sector as a source of employment and entrepreneurship, arguing that riders deserved support to strengthen their livelihoods and contribution to the local economy.

Mombasa County Boda Boda Chairman Samuel Ogutu welcomed the funding, saying it would help improve the sector and facilitate training to enable riders to obtain official certification.

The empowerment programme is expected to extend to Nyali, Changamwe, Kisauni, Jomvu and Mvita before reaching operators in neighbouring Kwale and Kilifi counties.

Likoni has more than 4,000 officially registered boda boda riders, while other operators are still registering with groups established to promote their economic interests.