By Leonard Murunga and Florence Omolloh
In a significant step towards empowering local transport operators, the Kisumu County Bodaboda Association on Friday received 10 motorbikes, courtesy of Principal Secretary (PS), state department for internal security and national administration Raymond Omollo.
Omollo pledged to empower Kisumu youth with 10 bikes, 5 tuktuks and one matatu when he met them on April 20, 2025. The April meeting was organized by Boy Akoth, Kisumu businessman.
During a handover ceremony, it was revealed that one motorbike will be under the custody of County Bodaboda Association, with 9 being taken up by individual riders.
Jacob Ochieng, the chairperson of the association expressed gratitude on behalf of the members, pledging support for the government ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged the PS to continue extending a helping hand to Kenyans across the country.
“We thank PS Raymond Omollo. We have received one motorbike in our office, and we are so grateful. We are going to give someone trusted within the association to use the bike and generate funds for the association. With such support, we believe the association will prosper,” said Ochieng.
Dan Omondi, the association's secretary, praised Omollo’s commitment to spearheading grassroots development, emphasizing their readiness to work with the government on more initiatives that uplift the bodaboda community.
“We really appreciate what the government has done for us and we are happy that the right channel has been followed. We are looking forward to meeting the PS to plan on how to work together going forward.”
One of the electric bikes handed over. Photo/JD
George Ajigo, referring to himself as chief bodaboda association leader, highlighted that the initiative reflects implementation of President William Ruto’s manifesto.
“After days of dialogue and waiting, we are now seeing the president’s promises being put into action,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of real change for the sector.
This motorbike handover represents a concrete step in enhancing mobility, creating income opportunities, and strengthening government engagement with the informal sector.
John Owigi Wesonga from Lolwe was among the beneficiaries. He received an electric motorbike, indicating that his dream of owning a bike had finally come true.