Nairobi, 9th June, 2026
Nairobi County has taken a significant step towards improving road safety by developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the enforcement of helmet use and safety obligations among motorcycle and wheeled cycle operators.
Speaking during the technical workshop, Dr. Victor Kibe, County Head of Division, Non-Communicable Diseases said road traffic injuries continue to place a significant strain on the healthcare system, with head injuries accounting for many emergency admissions. “These SOPs would contribute to injury prevention by encouraging consistent helmet use and improving compliance with safety standards among riders and passengers” he said.
Martha Chege, County Head of Unit, Non-Communicable Diseases, said road safety has become a growing public health concern that requires collaboration across different sectors and other state actors. She observed that many of the injuries and disabilities resulting from motorcycle crashes are preventable and often have far-reaching effects on families, livelihoods, and healthcare services.
County Director, Transport, Engineer Moses Kuiyaki stated that the SOPs will provide clear operational guidelines for enforcement and compliance within Nairobi’s rapidly growing motorcycle transport sector. “Boda boda transport has become an essential component of urban mobility and strengthening safety measures is critical to ensuring that this sector remains both reliable and responsible. The SOPs will establish practical standards that will support safer roads for riders, passengers, and all road users” he said.
The SOPs outline mandatory helmet requirements, personal protective equipment standards, emergency response procedures, and the use of digital technologies such as body-worn cameras, permit readers, and automated number plate recognition systems to enhance transparency and accountability. The framework also emphasizes rider responsibilities, passenger safety obligations, and the need for certified helmets that meet established safety standards.
Chief Counsel, Evans Mogire stated the SOPs are anchored on a strong legal framework that includes the Constitution of Kenya, the Traffic Act, the Nairobi City County Transport Act 2020, the County Governments Act, the Data Protection Act, Bodaboda regulations of 2025 and the NTSA Regulations. He noted that the document provides a clear enforcement framework that safeguards public safety while ensuring enforcement actions remain lawful, fair, and accountable.
Martha Lemba, Assistant Director for Public Participation and Citizen Engagement, stressed the need to involve citizens and stakeholders in policy development. She noted that engaging riders, transport operators, residents, civil society, and other groups ensures the SOPs reflect real ground challenges. She added that public participation improves policy outcomes and boosts compliance by giving stakeholders a voice in decisions affecting them.
The SOPs aim to improve compliance with transport laws, reduce road traffic injuries, and promote safer mobility through clear guidance for enforcement officers and stakeholders, aligned with national and county legislation. Once implemented, they will enhance enforcement consistency, improve rider safety, and support a safer, more efficient urban transport system.
Present were County Officers drawn from various sectors; Public Health, Legal, Mobility and Works among others.
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