In efforts to reduce deaths caused by a lack of first aid after accidents involving boda boda riders, the Kenya Medical Training College Bungoma campus took the initiative to train the riders and enhance their skills in first aid.
Victoria Koi, the institution’s principal, said that it is a community-based initiative aimed at reducing deaths that often occur after an accident and before the patient reaches the hospital. She emphasized that the riders need to be equipped with the necessary knowledge.
She disclosed that, together with other stakeholders including St. John Ambulance and the office of the Member of Parliament for Kanduyi, the riders will be able to take care of their clients and colleagues in the event of an accident.
Kanduyi MP John Makali applauded the organizers of the initiative, saying that many riders have been affected by accidents, with some even dying from injuries that could have been prevented if first aid had been administered.
He expressed his concern over the existence of exclusive wards in some hospitals for riders involved in accidents, stating that it was painful to know that the training had come at the right time. He called upon the beneficiaries to also extend the knowledge to others.
Makali also promised to fund another training that would refresh the riders’ understanding of road rules and the importance of following traffic signs, as many accidents occur due to a lack of attention.
Additionally, the MP challenged the riders to nominate three members who he will enroll at KMTC and sponsor them to pursue a course. These riders will be able to obtain a professional certificate in the medical field and be celebrated for their achievement.
The MP further cautioned the riders against being manipulated by some politicians, who often use them to cause chaos during political rallies. He encouraged them to make a positive impact in society.
The riders, led by Baba Leo, appreciated the efforts of the Medical Training College and the area MP for identifying the knowledge gap among them. They called for more training, noting that it would greatly benefit them.
