Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has ordered the release of motorcycles impounded by the county government over minor traffic offences, saying riders should not be subjected to prolonged punishment amid the country's economic hardships.
Speaking during the launch of a boda boda riders' training programme in Mombasa, Abdulswamad directed county officials to release all motorcycles held by the county for traffic-related offences.
However, he maintained that those facing criminal charges should continue to face the full force of the law.
“If there are motorcycles that have been impounded by the county because of traffic offences, they should all be released. For those arrested by the national government and currently in police custody, let us first establish the charges they are facing. If they are criminal offences, allow me to be the first to take them into custody because I do not support criminals,” he said.
The governor said riders accused of minor offences should not continue to be punished indefinitely, particularly at a time when many Kenyans are facing economic challenges.
“If they are only facing minor offences, let us not continue punishing people. These are difficult economic times for everyone. We need to train our people instead,” he said.
Abdulswamad said the county government's priority is to equip boda boda operators with the knowledge and skills they need to operate safely, lawfully and earn an honest living.
“The main reason we are here today is to ensure our people receive proper training so that as they earn their livelihoods, they do so legally and without causing harm to anyone. I want all of you to remain safe,” he said.
He announced that delivery riders will also undergo similar training, followed by matatu and tuk-tuk operators, as part of a broader road safety and skills development programme.
The governor said 1,300 riders had benefited from the first phase of the training, although the county had received applications from 3,000 riders.
“We will kick off with training 1,300 people, yet the names submitted to me totalled 3,000. There will therefore be a second phase because no training institution can accommodate everyone at the same time,” he said.
With the country entering a politically charged period, Abdulswamad urged boda boda riders not to allow themselves to be exploited by politicians to engage in violence or criminal activities.
“We have entered the political season. Do not allow yourselves to be used to commit crimes anywhere in Kenya. We must reject violence, abandon goonism and refuse to transport crude weapons or individuals intent on destroying property and committing crime. That is not who we are,” he said.
He described the boda boda industry as one built on hard work and determination, warning that involvement in crime, even briefly, could permanently damage a person's future.
“The boda boda sector was built through sweat and hard work. No one has ever succeeded through crime. Do not allow one or two days of criminal activity to destroy your life because, in the end, criminals are always arrested,” he added.
Boda boda sector chairperson Samuel Ogutu welcomed the initiative, saying the programme is about more than obtaining driving licences, as it equips riders with practical knowledge that will improve professionalism and road safety.
“This is not about obtaining a driving licence but about equipping riders with knowledge. The training will positively impact many families across Mombasa,” the chairperson said.
He confirmed that an additional 1,500 riders will benefit from the second phase of the programme.
During the event, the county government also donated 12 motorcycles, with each of Mombasa's six sub-counties receiving two motorcycles.
The motorcycles are expected to support beneficiaries by improving their financial independence and creating sustainable income opportunities.
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