More than 300 bodaboda operators from across Uasin Gishu County have benefitted from safety gears during an event that was aimed at educating them on road safety and how to follow traffic rules.
The event organized by Global Civic Sharing (GCS) international brought together more than ten groups of the riders, in an effort the organization believes will help educate other bodaboda riders on the safe use of roads.
Speaking during the event at the Teachers Advisory Centre (TAC) in Eldoret town, GCS programs coordinator Elphas Kirwa said the project was also used to distribute safety equipment to bodaboda operators across the county.
“We’re sanitizing them on the need to drive safely and stick to the road safety guidelines expected of them. We have also supported them with riding gears that will help enhance their safety,” Kirwa said.
He noted that the initiative will be of benefit to operators who don’t have driving skills as they empower some to acquire driving licenses.
Kirwa also called on other stakeholders to join hands and improve bodaboda safety.
Some of the bodaboda riders who participated in the training said it was a great initiative that will go a long way towards ensuring the safety of all road users.
“I had no driving license now I have one. I have also undergone training among them gender sensitivity and Human Rights, alongside other support,” said Naomi Chepkemboi from Pioneer estate who operates a bodaboda at Kokwas.
“This is a great program as it creates awareness on road safety for us. We’re looking forward to a great future of being empowered and supported,” added another operator, Mathias Ndombi, chairman Dynamic Kokwas Self Help group chairman.
The bodaboda riders were given among others chest cuts, refractor jackets, trousers, helmets, and gloves.
