The Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya has strongly condemned recent comments made by President William Ruto’s Constitutional Affairs Advisor, Professor Makau Mutua, calling them reckless and insensitive.
The association is now demanding a formal apology from Mutua over remarks he made suggesting that boda bodas should be banned from all major towns in Kenya.
Speaking on Friday morning, the association said the advisor’s statements directly contradict the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which aims to place ordinary Kenyans at the heart of economic progress.
They expressed shock at Mutua’s public call, made through his social media platforms, for the total removal of boda bodas from city roads.
“We firmly reject and denounce Prof. Makau Mutua’s proposal to outlaw boda boda operations in Kenyan towns and cities,” read part of their statement.
The group emphasized that the boda boda sector is far more than just a means of transportation — it serves as a lifeline for over two million families across the country. These families depend on the industry to earn a living, buy food, pay school fees, and access healthcare.
The association underlined the importance of the sector, saying it has become a pillar of economic stability, especially for young people and those in lower-income communities.
While they acknowledged that the industry faces challenges such as safety concerns and a lack of regulation, they stressed that the solution lies in reforms and collaboration — not in banning the trade altogether.
They proposed that the way forward should include structured dialogues with stakeholders, proper rider training, clear policy changes, and more investment in the sector. “Sweeping bans are not the answer,” the statement continued.
“We urge all government leaders to embrace inclusive policies and work hand-in-hand with us to develop solutions that strengthen and empower the boda boda sector.”
On Thursday, Makau Mutua had called for a blanket ban on boda bodas within all major towns, claiming the sector contributes to lawlessness, traffic chaos, indiscipline, and a poor urban appearance.
“I believe boda bodas have no place in the streets of modern cities. They represent disorder, illegality, and visual ugliness,” Mutua wrote on social media.
His statement quickly sparked outrage among Kenyans online, with many accusing him of attacking an industry that plays a major role in boosting the country’s economy and improving livelihoods.
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