Nairobi: October 30, 2024
Nairobi County’s Social Services Sub sector convened a sensitization forum held at Green Park terminus to raise awareness on drug abuse and road safety among boda boda riders. This collaborative event brought together key stakeholders and partners with the shared goal of addressing rising substance abuse and unsafe road practices in the boda boda community, ultimately aiming to foster safer practices and improve health awareness within this essential workforce.
Mr. Robert Muema, Deputy Director Social Services, reinforced the county’s dedication to supporting the mental wellbeing of boda boda operators, showcasing the availability of counseling centers across every sub-county. He highlighted the critical issue of riding while intoxicated, noting its significant contribution to the escalating number of accidents, especially on weekends. “The tragic reality is that over 1,900 boda boda riders lose their lives annually due to preventable incidents,” Muema remarked, stressing the urgency for riders to adhere to safety measures.
Ms. Jemimah Kamau, Acting Assistant Director Social Services, opened the forum by reaffirming the county’s commitment to safeguarding boda boda operators from the risks of drug abuse and unsafe practices. She emphasized the pivotal role of such programs in enhancing rider safety and called on attendees to adopt healthier habit, issuing a stark warning about the hazards of counterfeit alcohol consumption, which can lead to liver cirrhosis and other severe health consequences. “Intoxicated riders not only endanger their lives but also pose a serious risk to others on the road. Today’s program is a crucial step in promoting a safer, healthier community for all,” she stated, urging riders to seek support in overcoming substance abuse challenges.
Kenya Boda Boda Association (KBA) Chairman, Alex Kulema, encouraged young riders to prioritize road safety by obtaining the proper licenses and announced on February 2025 they plan to launch new pick-up stations across all sub-counties. He also revealed a scholarship program for children of KBA members, offering a year of school fees for any child scoring 350 marks or above. “We aim to empower the next generation by supporting our community’s education,” he declared, urging riders to maintain standards of responsibility and integrity.
Jemimah Auka, representing the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), acknowledging the concerning rise of drug abuse within the boda boda community, as we see inflation making daily life more challenging, some riders turn to substances like khat to push through long, exhausting work hours. While it may seem like a quick fix, the cost to your health over time is profound. Khat and similar substances take a toll not only on your body but also on your mind, increasing risks of chronic conditions that could ultimately endanger your life and livelihood,” she noted.
The event was supported by organizations including the Kenya Red Cross, Faras, Support for Addiction Prevention and Treatment in Africa (SAPTA) College, Motorist Association of Kenya, M-Kopa Mobility, Watu Credit, Prudential Life Assurance, Beth Mobility, Ampersand, NTSA, Safisha Rada, NACADA, and the Ministry of Education, this forum represented a collective commitment to safeguarding the well-being and safety of Nairobi’s boda boda riders.
In attendance were Assistant Directors Fredrick Ogutu and Rosemary Kibathi.
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