By Perez Karisa, June 25, 2026
Boda boda sector leaders have pledged to maintain normal transport operations across the country during Thursday’s Gen Z anniversary protests, assuring commuters of uninterrupted services while issuing a stern warning against political actors attempting to use riders to incite violence or disrupt public order.
The national leadership of the motorcycle transport sector confirmed that all riders will continue operating as usual across counties, even as demonstrations mark two years since the June 25, 2024, storming of Parliament, an event that has since become a symbol of youth-led political activism in the country.
Sector representatives emphasized that the boda boda industry remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s informal economy and must not be drawn into political conflicts or used as a tool for unrest.
🏍️ Operational Continuity and Economic Stability
According to the leadership, riders have been instructed to continue offering normal transport services to commuters, traders, and workers in order to sustain daily economic activity, particularly in urban centres where motorcycles remain a primary mode of last-mile connectivity.
They noted that any disruption in boda boda operations would have a direct impact on livelihoods, especially for informal workers who depend on affordable and flexible transport to access employment opportunities.
🚫 Warning Against Political Exploitation
At the same time, sector leaders issued a strong caution to riders against accepting financial inducements from political actors or individuals allegedly seeking to mobilize them for disruptive activities.
They warned that attempts to recruit boda boda riders to block roads, escort violent groups, or participate in coordinated unrest would not be tolerated within the industry.
“We are urging all riders to remain professional and avoid being used to fuel violence or illegal gatherings,” the leadership emphasized, adding that any member found engaging in such activities would face disciplinary action from local stage committees.
🛡️ Self-Regulation and Security Cooperation
The leadership further encouraged riders to strengthen internal monitoring mechanisms at stage level, including identifying individuals who may attempt to infiltrate the sector for criminal or political purposes.
Riders were also directed to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers, especially at security checkpoints and diversion points set up across major roads during the protest period.
They emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious activity to authorities in real time in order to prevent escalation of tensions.
🚧 Ground Realities Across Key Cities
Despite the assurance of continued operations, boda boda movement in several cities has been affected by ongoing security measures.
In Nairobi, anti-riot police have mounted strict checkpoints along major entry routes into the Central Business District, including Waiyaki Way and Thika Superhighway, where riders are being routinely stopped, vetted, and in some cases turned away.
In Eldoret, riders face heightened surveillance around Uganda Road and key government installations, including the county headquarters, as security agencies maintain a preventive posture against potential gatherings.
In contrast, Kisumu City has reported relatively smooth operations, with boda boda riders continuing their services normally as residents largely stayed off the streets during the anniversary-related activities.
📊 Sector Position
Industry leaders concluded by reaffirming that the boda boda sector remains committed to neutrality, public safety, and economic continuity, stressing that riders must prioritize lawful operations and avoid involvement in any form of political confrontation.
They added that maintaining order within the sector is essential not only for public safety but also for protecting the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of riders across the country.
