Nakuru City Management has launched an assessment to identify new locations for motorcycle (bodaboda) stages across the city. The initiative follows a consultative meeting between City Manager Gitau Thabanja and representatives of the bodaboda sector, aimed at improving safety, organization, and operational efficiency for riders while aligning the sector with the city’s broader development goals.
During the meeting, bodaboda operators highlighted challenges affecting their daily operations, including rising incidents of attempted attacks, harassment, and safety concerns while on duty. In response, the City Manager emphasized that the safety of all riders is a priority and called for closer cooperation between operators and county enforcement officers. He noted that adherence to city by-laws and respect for enforcement personnel are essential in maintaining order and ensuring a secure working environment.
The meeting also addressed issues related to minor offences and arrests within the sector. Riders requested that dialogue and mediation be prioritized over immediate prosecution for minor violations, to avoid disrupting daily operations. Mr. Thabanja acknowledged the importance of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and indicated that the administration is open to implementing approaches that balance law enforcement with fair treatment and operational continuity for riders.
The ongoing assessment of potential new bodaboda stages is designed to ensure that riders have secure, strategically located points for passenger pick-up and drop-off. Properly located stages will reduce congestion, enhance traffic flow, and create an organized system that benefits both riders and city residents. The initiative also aims to improve service delivery by making public transport more predictable, reliable, and safer.
Under the leadership of Governor Susan Kihika, Nakuru County has prioritized the empowerment of the bodaboda sector. Recognized as a key pillar of the county’s economy, the sector provides income opportunities for thousands of residents while supporting daily transport needs across the city. The county administration is committed to creating a regulated, safe, and supportive environment that enables riders to operate efficiently and sustainably.
By involving riders directly in planning and consultation, the county ensures that policy and infrastructure interventions respond to the practical needs of operators while addressing urban management requirements. The assessment will also inform future investments in facilities such as shelters, shade structures, and designated waiting areas, enhancing working conditions and providing secure points for both operators and passengers.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy under Governor Kihika’s leadership to strengthen urban mobility, promote economic participation, and improve public service delivery across Nakuru County. By prioritizing safety, organization, and dialogue, the county is reinforcing its commitment to inclusive development that balances regulatory oversight with the needs of local operators.
Once completed, the assessment and subsequent implementation of new bodaboda stages will support safer operations, reduce conflicts, and enhance the efficiency of transport services across Nakuru City. The county government continues to engage stakeholders, monitor developments, and provide practical support to ensure that the bodaboda sector remains a viable and integral component of the city’s transport system.
This approach demonstrates how Nakuru County is translating Governor Susan Kihika’s manifesto commitments into practical outcomes, creating a safer, regulated, and productive environment for residents, riders, and the broader urban community.