From gears to growth: Boda riders train for the future

https://www.bmz-digital.global/en/news/e-learning-boda-riders

In the heart of Kenya’s bustling cities like Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa, a ‘Boda Boda’ isn’t just a Motorbike Taxi, it is a lifeline transporting people. With an estimated 1.5 million boda riders currently serving the Kenyan economy, they are a vital part of the transportation system, connecting people to jobs, schools, and essential services.

Despite working in the most challenging conditions, boda riders often face negative stereotypes, being perceived as reckless or unprofessional, and treated with little dignity and respect.

Calvince Okumu, a former boda rider, was unhappy with this public perception and knew it had to change. He understood the challenges first-hand and how a lack of soft skills, digital know-how and community support left riders struggling. So, he took it upon himself to become a ‘boda boda leader’, organising the workers and uplifting his fellow riders by providing training in financial literacy, digital skills, and customer service. His goal: to change the narrative by educating the riders to promote professionalism.

Upskilling for a Better Future

Calvince’s journey began with ‘Skills4Riders’, an online learning programme for location-based platform workers developed by the GIZ Gig Economy Initiative. The course equips riders with essential skills in financial literacy, digital tools, customer orientation, and road safety. Through GIZ’s partner in Kenya, the Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT), Calvince learned about various tools a boda rider operating through online platforms needs to effectively plan and manage finances, maximize revenue and improve customer service—all while prioritising road safety.

The courses helped me understand what I was missing as a leader. I gained knowledge on gig worker policies, gender perspectives, and the importance of personal hygiene and customer etiquette.

Calvince Okumu, National chair, Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association of Kenya

Building a Community of Professional Riders

Armed with this knowledge, Calvince is now actively educating fellow riders–especially women–on how to navigate the gig economy with professionalism and confidence. Today, he leads two rider associations, working to establish a new industry standard for professionalism and safety. His vision is clear: a future where well-trained riders are respected, earn better income, and contribute to a safer transport sector.

When we are transformed, we will have a very good community. In the end, we want respect for our profession and the work we do. For that we must offer good service and become more professional.

Calvince Okumu, National chair, Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association of Kenya

The Gig Economy Initiative Works for Riders

Working in the gig economy presents both opportunities and challenges for many riders. The sector relies heavily on technology, connecting workers with customers through digital platforms. Without proper knowledge and training, riders often struggle with financial instability, safety risks, and a lack of professional recognition. However, training programmes such as ‘Skills4Riders’ are achieving a significant impact beyond individual success, with over 3,000 riders having completed the course bundle to date.

Ensuring that gig workers have access to skills development and fair working conditions remains essential for building a sustainable and inclusive gig economy that values both—workers and the communities they serve.

Calvince’s journey reminds us that with the right skills and a strong community, real change is possible—one ride at a time.

If we work together to educate people, society will see the value in Boda Boda riders.

Calvince Okumu, National chair, Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association of Kenya

Road Safety Sensitization in Naivasha

A Strategic Initiative to Save Lives and Promote Responsible Road Use

By: Digital Boda Drivers & Deliveries Association of Kenya (DBDDAK)
Theme: Safety Is Life – Sanity & Safety on Our Roads

Road safety remains one of the most urgent public concerns in Kenya today. As motorcycle transport and delivery services continue to expand rapidly across the country, the need for discipline, safety awareness, and professional conduct on our roads has never been greater.

In recent years, Naivasha and the wider Nakuru County have witnessed a rising number of road accidents involving motorcycles—leading to loss of lives, serious injuries, permanent disabilities, and devastating emotional and financial impact on families. These incidents are preventable, and they demand a united response.

It is with this commitment that the Digital Boda Drivers & Deliveries Association of Kenya (DBDDAK) has launched a Road Safety Sensitization Campaign in Naivasha, bringing together riders, motorists, passengers, pedestrians, safety agencies, and community stakeholders to champion responsible road use.

Why This Campaign Matters

Motorcycles have become a key part of Kenya’s mobility and economic system, enabling convenience, employment, courier services, and emergency support. However, unsafe riding practices such as overspeeding, reckless overtaking, failure to wear protective gear, substance abuse, and poor bike maintenance continue to put lives at risk.

Beyond statistics are real human tragedies—families grieving, children left without parents, communities losing productive members, and hospitals overwhelmed with preventable injuries.

No journey or trip is worth a human life.

Our Road Safety Commitment

DBDDAK is committed to transforming the transport sector through safety-centered leadership, professional discipline, and community partnership. The Naivasha road safety sensitization program focuses on:

Key Objectives

• Enforcing compulsory use of helmets and reflector jackets
• Promoting regular motorcycle maintenance and safety checks
• Advocating against overspeeding and reckless overtaking
• Encouraging zero alcohol and drug influence while riding
• Strengthening training, public education, and safety compliance
• Enhancing collaboration with NTSA, Traffic Police, county institutions, and health facilities
• Establishing emergency response and first aid support systems

This is not just a campaign—it is a long-term transformation agenda.

A Message to Riders

Every time you start your motorcycle, remember that someone is waiting for you to return home. You are valuable. You are needed. You are loved.

• Ride with responsibility and discipline.
• Protect your passengers—they are human beings, not just customers.
• Speak up and correct fellow riders respectfully.
• Report dangerous behavior for the greater good.

A professional rider is a protector of life.

A Call to the Public

Road safety is a shared responsibility. We urge motorists, pedestrians, business owners, and institutions to support this campaign by promoting safe riding culture, respecting all road users, and standing against reckless and illegal practices.

Together, we can build a safe and orderly transport environment that benefits everyone.

Our Vision for Naivasha

We envision Naivasha becoming a model town known for:

• Safe, disciplined, and professional motorcycle operations
• Reduced road accidents and increased public confidence
• Strong partnerships between riders, authorities, and the community

This is achievable—if we act together.

Conclusion

Road accidents are preventable, not unavoidable. The responsibility belongs to all of us. Let us protect life, preserve families, and build a safer community.

Sanity and Safety.

Safety Begins With Me.

Safety Saves Lives.

Digital Boda Drivers & Deliveries Association of Kenya (DBDDAK)
Empowering riders, supporting communities, and transforming Kenya’s transport ecosystem.