Makau Mutua Sparks Controversy with Call to Ban Boda Bodas in Cities

Nairobi, Kenya — President William Ruto’s Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs, Professor Makau Mutua, has ignited public uproar after urging a nationwide ban on boda bodas from all major towns and cities in Kenya.

In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter) Thursday, Mutua labeled boda bodas as a symbol of “chaos” and “illegality,” claiming that modern cities should not accommodate their presence.

“I am convinced that ALL boda boda should be banned from the streets of ALL Kenya’s major cities and towns. No modern city should tolerate such chaos, illegality, terrible aesthetics, and indiscipline on its roads. Absolutely UNACCEPTABLE,” Mutua posted.

His remarks have drawn sharp reactions, with some Kenyans agreeing that boda bodas contribute to road disorder, congestion, and rising accident cases. However, many others have pushed back, highlighting that the sector supports hundreds of thousands of livelihoods and is vital in Kenya’s struggling economy.

Boda bodas remain a primary mode of affordable transport and employment for many youth, especially in urban areas. Despite past attempts by Nairobi’s former governors Evans Kidero and Mike Sonko to restrict them from the central business district, enforcement failed due to public resistance.

Recent data from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) revealed that nearly 800 people died in boda boda-related accidents between October and December 2024.

In light of the sector’s economic significance, authorities have mostly avoided bans. Instead, Parliament is exploring reforms, including mandatory rider training, licensing, and route regulation. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to modernize the industry through electric motorcycles, backed by the UN Environment Programme, to curb emissions and enhance safety.

The debate over the future of boda bodas in Kenyan cities remains highly polarized.