Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, presided over a Boda Boda Stakeholder Engagement Forum in Busia County today, encouraging riders to adopt organised structures, collaborate with security entities, and engage actively in Government development initiatives.
While speaking to more than 2,000 boda boda operators from various parts of Busia County, the PS highlighted that the Government views this sector as a significant employment avenue for youth and an important economic asset to the nation.
The PS mentioned that comparable forums had previously taken place in Kilifi, Kisumu, and Homa Bay counties, with plans to extend the initiative to all 47 counties.
Omollo praised Busia’s boda boda operators for their collaboration with security agencies, emphasizing that the partnership between riders, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), and security forces had greatly enhanced peace and stability in the region.
“We value the ongoing support and cooperation we receive from boda boda operators regarding security matters. This collaborative approach has enabled us to sustain peace and address security challenges efficiently throughout the county.”
The PS reaffirmed President William Ruto’s previous instruction regarding the release of motorcycles seized for minor violations, calling upon security leaders to expedite the freeing of bikes detained for minor infractions, consistent with legal provisions and Government policy.
Additionally, Omollo urged boda boda operators to formally enroll in SACCOs and registered associations, asserting that improved organisational structures would foster greater professionalism, accountability, and self-governance within the industry.
The PS explained that appropriate registration and identification procedures would help identify and remove criminal elements who have infiltrated the sector, while safeguarding legitimate operators and expanding their access to development opportunities.
Omollo also encouraged Busia residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) programme, highlighting that more than half of the population had already signed up.
He mentioned that greater participation would allow the Government to devise more effective healthcare strategies and enhance access to affordable medical services for residents.
The PS outlined various ongoing Government development initiatives in the area, such as road infrastructure, markets, affordable housing, and railway expansion, reaffirming the Government’s dedication to balanced development throughout the nation.
“As citizens of Western Kenya, we recognize the current development initiatives and the efforts aimed at ensuring all regions equally benefit from Government projects and opportunities.”
Omollo appealed to residents to maintain their support for peace, unity, and development, while rejecting political divisions that could compromise the progress already accomplished.
The event was graced by Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, Bungoma Governor Kennedy Lusaka, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Susan Mang’eni, Western Regional Commissioner Irungu Macharia, along with boda boda sector leaders and representatives from across the Western Region.