For nearly a century, pedal-powered bicycles was symbol of class in Kisumu, the legacy leaves on even with advent of classy four-wheelers
The now-famous bicycle boda traces its origins to the Kenya-Uganda border town of Busia during the 1960s and 1970s when the bicycle was the main mode of transport. Cyclists ferried travellers and goods between customs posts as they shouted “border, border” to attract customers crossing the international boundary. Over time, the phrase evolved into the now universally recognised term “boda.”
Nairobi holds motocross championship to select team to represent Kenya in this year’s Motocross of African Nations
A key attraction will be the RSA Boda Safety Challenge, where boda boda (taxi motorbike) riders will compete in practical road-safety skills for cash prizes, merchandise and gift hampers. Participation is limited to the first 30 registered riders with roadworthy motorcycles, helmets and closed shoes.
Iran war ripple effect: How fuel scarcity and sky-high cost are giving a flip to electric bikes uptake in Nyanza and western Kenya
Several companies, including Spiro Kenya, Roam Electric, Ampersand and Ecobodaa are rapidly expanding businesses around the country by establishing battery-swapping stations and introducing financing programmes specifically tailored for boda riders.
How Uganda’s signature mode of transport has turned Kampala into Africa’s ‘boda boda capital’
The boda-boda men, who operate mostly unregulated, have resisted recent attempts to dislodge them from the narrow streets of Kampala’s central business district, frustrating city authorities and underscoring the government’s fears over the consequences of angering a horde of jobless men.
